Matthew Short set to miss Champions Trophy semi-final: Here's why
What's the story
Australia's top-order batter Matthew Short is likely to miss the upcoming semi-final of the Champions Trophy with a quad injury.
The injury was sustained during Australia's match against Afghanistan on Friday.
Despite the injury, Short scored a brilliant 20 runs off 15 balls before being dismissed.
However, his movement on the field was visibly affected by the injury.
Here are the details.
Captain's view
Smith expresses concern over Short's recovery time
Speaking after the match against Afghanistan, Australian captain Steve Smith had voiced his concerns over Short's injury.
He said, "I think he'll be struggling," adding that "it's probably going to be too quick between games for him to recover."
This indicates that Short may not have enough time to recover completely before Australia's next crucial match in the tournament.
Replacement options
Potential replacements for Short in Australia's squad
In Short's absence, Jake Fraser-McGurk has been tipped as a possible replacement. Fraser-McGurk was earlier drafted into the squad as Mitchell Marsh's injury replacement.
Other changes could include promoting all-rounder Aaron Hardie to open.
Cooper Connolly, a left-handed batter and left-arm spinner, who is a traveling reserve, could also be considered if Short is ruled out of the tournament officially.
Bowling implications
Impact of Short's absence on Australia's bowling attack
Short's possible absence from the squad could also affect Australia's bowling attack as he is a valuable spin-bowling option.
In the match against Afghanistan, his seven overs cost just 21 runs.
However, Australia still have a few batters who can bowl spin, including Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne.
The latter took two wickets in a recent match against England.
Tournament challenges
Australia's injury woes and tournament uncertainties
Australia have dealt with a number of injuries heading into the tournament, with Marsh (back), Pat Cummins (ankle), Josh Hazlewood (hip), and Mitchell Starc (ankle) all missing out. Marcus Stoinis also announced his retirement.
The semi-final venue for the teams qualifying from Group B is still unknown until the India-New Zealand game on Sunday night concludes.
This makes Australia's preparations for their next Champions Trophy match even more complicated.
Semis
Australia qualify for Champions Trophy semis
Australia have qualified for the semis of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Australia restricted the Afghans to 273/10 in 50 overs.
During the run-chase, the Aussies racked up 109/1 in 12.5 overs before rain stopped play. With the outfield still water-logged, the umpires reckoned it is too damp for any cricket to resume.
Afghanistan are on the brink of elimination with South Africa likely to take top place in Group B.