“Initial assessment indicates a moderate grade hamstring injury”

Image courtesy of: Zimbio

Uncapped left-arm spinner Jon Holland could be in line to make his Test debut after he was called up to replace Steve O’Keefe, who sustained a hamstring injury.

O’Keefe, who suffered the injury while fielding on the third day on Thursday, has been ruled out for the remainder of the series.

“Steve injured his right hamstring while chasing a ball in the field during the second session yesterday,” team physio David Beakley said. “Initial assessment indicates a moderate grade hamstring injury which means it is highly unlikely that he will be available for the remainder of the Test series.

“Steve will remain with the squad in Kandy until the end of the Test and will undertake imaging on the injury upon his return to Australia.”

National selector Rod Marsh added: “It is incredibly disappointing for Steve to get this injury and I really feel for him. He was bowling well in the Test and had caused some trouble to Sri Lanka’s top order.

The selectors have decided to go for a like-for-like replacement for Steve, in Jon Holland. Jon had a good end to the Sheffield Shield season and is currently in Brisbane with Australia A as they prepare for a four-day match against South Africa A.

“He will be on a plane as soon as possible and is a strong chance to make his debut in the Galle Test.”