Cricket World Cup: Injury blow for 2nd favourites Australia

2nd favourites Australia suffer injury blow ahead of England match

Maxwell sidelined with concussion
Injury sustained falling off a golf buggy on day off
Batsman should be fit for remainder of tournament

Australia’s Glenn Maxwell will be sidelined for the upcoming World Cup match against England following a concussion sustained in a mishap involving a golf buggy. The incident occurred during a day off in Ahmedabad, where the Australian squad was enjoying a round of golf.

Maxwell should return later in tournament

Fortunately, the team has confirmed that there are no additional injuries, and they remain hopeful that Maxwell will be able to return to play later in the tournament. Maxwell had recently made headlines with a remarkable 40-ball century, setting a new World Cup record, during a match against the Netherlands.

Throughout the tournament, Maxwell has demonstrated his prowess with a total of 196 runs at an impressive average of 39.20, in addition to taking four wickets with his off-spin. It’s worth noting that this setback follows a previous injury when the 35-year-old cricketer broke his leg in an unusual accident at a birthday celebration last year.

While England’s chances of reaching the semi-finals are all but over, Australia are riding high with four consecutive victories, currently occupying the fourth spot in the standings. A win in the upcoming match in Ahmedabad would significantly enhance their prospects of securing a semi-final berth.

With Maxwell’s absence, there may be an opportunity for players like Cameron Green or Marcus Stoinis to step into the breach. Stoinis, however, has been contending with a calf issue, which may impact his availability for the match.

Betting Implications

Australia are 3/1 second favourites to win the tournament with bet365, but they still have to ensure that they seal qualification after their superb recent form. Maxwell’s absence against England will be a blow, however, given the respective form of the two sides, the Aussies should still have enough to get a win. Betway have Australia at 8/15 and England at 7/5.