Hand fracture rules Cooper Connolly out of Pakistan T20Is

Australia's T20I preparations for the upcoming series against Pakistan have been hampered as all-rounder Cooper Connolly has been ruled out after sustaining a fractured left hand during the third and final ODI at Perth Stadium. The injury occurred during Australia's batting innings as they suffered a comprehensive eight-wicket defeat to the Men in Green on Sunday.

The incident took place in the 17th over when Connolly, facing pacer Mohammad Hasnain, attempted a pull shot but was struck painfully on his glove. Despite trying to continue, the 21-year-old was forced to retire hurt after facing just one more delivery.

Subsequent scans revealed a fracture to the fourth metacarpal of his left hand, prompting immediate medical attention. Cricket Australia confirmed that Connolly will consult a specialist in Perth on Monday to see the full extent of his injury.

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Cooper Connolly's injury has raised concerns for the Perth Scorchers

The young all-rounder, who had made his international debut during the UK tour in September, was being groomed as a potential key player for the 2026 T20 World Cup. His finishing abilities with the bat and left-arm spin bowling have made him a valuable asset in Australia's limited-overs plans.

The injury also raises concerns for the Perth Scorchers, with the Big Bash League set to begin on December 15. Connolly's participation in Western Australia's upcoming Sheffield Shield matches is now in doubt.

Cricket Australia is expected to name a replacement for the T20I series against Pakistan in the coming days. The selection committee has the challenge of finding a player who can potentially fill the role that Connolly offered to the team. In his brief international career, he has played in two T20Is against Scotland and England. Meanwhile, Pakistan created history by securing their first bilateral ODI series victory on Australian soil in 22 years.