Injury scare for Faulkner

Perth, Feb 1 (IANS) Australian cricketer James Faulkner left the field with ‘side soreness’ in the tri-series final against England at the WACA here Sunday.

Halfway through his third over, the left-arm medium pacer started stretching his right side and after a brief chat with captain George Bailey, left the field.

Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed his injury on Twitter, stating, “James Faulkner left the field with side (ribs) soreness. Medical staff will assess him and a further update will be provided in due course.”

The injury will be a setback for Australia with their opening match of the World Cup just two weeks away.

The 24-year-old had earlier starred with the bat, scoring an unbeaten 50 from only 24 balls, hitting a six off the final ball of the innings to bring up his half-century and taking the home side to a healthy 278 for eight.