Injury to insult: Starc being monitored over hamstring scare

Abu Dhabi: Mitchell Starc is set to be monitored after tightness in his left hamstring limited his output on day two of the second Test against Pakistan.

Backing up with the ball for the second consecutive day after Australia's all-too brief first innings with the bat, Starc, who had already carried a heavy load in the first Test in Dubai, sent down just four overs in one-and-a-half sessions.

Concern: Strike bowler Mitchell Starc experienced hamstring tightness against Pakistan.

Concern: Strike bowler Mitchell Starc experienced hamstring tightness against Pakistan.Credit:AAP

He even spent time in the slip cordon, a strange spot for a fast bowler, in what opener Aaron Finch said was an attempt to manage the quick.

Assessed after play on Wednesday, Starc has been given the green light to continue playing in the match, but just how much he bowls on day three remains to be seen.

With Australia doubtless mindful not to risk him ahead of a busy home summer, Starc could end up missing the Twenty20 inernationals against Pakistan that follow the Test series, with Peter Siddle set to remain in the UAE after the second Test, having been placed on standby for the T20s.

Starc's issues only add to Australia's woes as they find themselves in a deep hole for the second time in the two Tests against Pakistan.

The tourists did pick up two wickets as Pakistan began their second innings, including one to Starc, but their lead had reached 281 at stumps with eight wickets in hand heading into day three.

Source: Read Full Article