Cooper Connolly ruled out of Pakistan T20Is after fracturing hand in 3rd AUS vs PAK 2024 ODI

Young Australian all-rounder Cooper Connolly has been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against Pakistan. Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed he had fractured his hand while batting in the third ODI between the two teams in Perth on Sunday, November 10.

Connolly hurt his hand while trying to pull a sharp bouncer by Pakistani pacer Mohammad Hasnain on the second ball of the 17th over. He couldn't quite adjust to the extra bounce and was hit on the glove.

The left-hander tried to continue playing, slicing his next ball to deep third, but then immediately called up the physio. He walked off, retired hurt at 7(16) after a few tests and didn't bat again.

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"Cooper Connolly has a fractured fourth metacarpal on his left hand, ruling him out of the Australian men's T20 side to play Pakistan. He was struck on the hand by Mohammad Hasnain while batting in the final ODI against Pakistan in Perth," CA said in a statement.

The T20I series will begin on November 14. CA are yet to announce a replacement for Connolly. It's a big blow to the youngster and his team, though, given he now might have to miss a couple of Sheffield Shield games and if the recovery takes longer, some matches of the BBL 2024-24, which begins on December 15.

Connolly is considered one of the most promising prospects in Australia, especially in T20s, where he is a big-hitter who can bat at any position with aplomb while also offering decent left-arm spin.

Connolly's injury salt on Australia's wounds

Connolly played this match only because Australia rested its Test stars in light of the upcoming series against India.

His injury proved to be salt on the wounds of a massive series loss as Pakistan bowled Australia out for just 140 and won the third ODI with eight wickets to spare, claiming the series 2-1.

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