Calf strain rules Inglis out of Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Australia could be pushed into calling up a spare batter to the squad ahead of the New Year's Test in Sydney against India after Josh Inglis was ruled out of the series with a low-grade calf strain. Inglis suffered the injury while serving as a substitute during the ongoing Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.

The 29-year-old was the only spare batter left in the squad after all-rounder Beau Webster was released to play in the Big Bash League.

Inglis's injury could pave the way for a return to the squad for Nathan McSweeney, who was left out in favour of Sam Konstas before this Test. McSweeney's versatility to bat across the line-up could also give him an outside chance of participation in Sydney in case Australia decide to pick an extra batter instead of an all-rounder (Mitchell Marsh).

Meanwhile, Inglis will face a race against time to be picked for Australia's two-Test series in Sri Lanka, where his proficiency against spin will make him an invaluable asset. Australia are scheduled to have a pre-tour camp in the UAE before the first Test in Galle on January 29.