Australia’s Usman Khawaja and Marcus Stoinis a doubt for England semi-final

Matthew Wade and Mitch Marsh will join Australia’s World Cup squad as cover for injured pair Usman Khawaja and Marcus Stoinis.

Khawaja was troubled by a problem to his left hamstring which led to him retiring hurt in the 10-run defeat to South Africa on Saturday, although the batsman did take to the field again in the closing stages at Old Trafford.

Australia revealed on Sunday the injury is likely to preclude his involvement for the remainder of the tournament, while Stoinis’ side complaint leaves him doubtful for Thursday’s mouthwatering semi-final against England, live on Sky Sports.

Wade and Marsh will therefore leave the Australia A party currently touring England to link up with the 15-man World Cup group – although neither will become a formal part of the squad yet.

A statement on Cricket Australia’s website said: “Australia A arrived at Arundel for today’s four-day clash with Sussex short two players after wicketkeeper-batter Matthew Wade and allrounder Mitch Marsh were called up as cover to Australia’s World Cup squad.

“The injury setbacks to Usman Khawaja (hamstring) and Marcus Stoinis (side) suffered in Australia’s dramatic loss to South Africa in Manchester has seen the selectors draft in Wade and Marsh.

“They left Brighton this morning for Birmingham, the destination of Australia’s blockbuster semi-final show with tournament hosts England on Thursday.

“Both Khawaja and Stoinis are set to undergo scans today before their future in the World Cup is determined, with both players still officially a part of Australia’s 15-man Cup squad at this stage.

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