Australia has suffered another setback as Nathan Ellis has been ruled out of the final ODI against South Africa. Ellis sustained a side strain after bowling four overs during Australia’s second ODI defeat at The Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.

Ellis will be returning home and will take a fitness assessment ahead of Australia’s ODI assignment against England in November. The 31-year-old has been an integral part of Australia’s plans in the ODI format and was building the squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Meanwhile, all-rounder Joel Davies has also been ruled out of the final ODIs after suffering a hamstring injury in Johannesburg.

On the other hand, Josh Inglis had previously been ruled out of the remaining ODIs after fracturing his right index finger in the opening match.

Australia has already brought Jack Edwards into the ODI squad after Billy Stanlake suffered a tour-ending side injury. Despite a long list of injury woes, Cricket Australia has not named any replacements for Ellis or Davies.

Alex Carey is expected to take over wicketkeeping duties following Inglis’ departure.

With Cummins and Starc part of the South African leg, Australia will rely on the experienced pacers.

Meanwhile, the national selectors have also made changes to the Australia A squad in India. Brendan Doggett, Fergus O’Neil and Campbell Kellaway will leave India to return home for the start of the Sheffield Shield season, with Sam Harper, Jhye Richardson and Liam Hatcher set to play in the second unofficial Test in Puducherry starting on Tuesday.

Australia have already lost the three-match ODI series after South Africa secured wins in the first two games. The final ODI is set to be played on September 30 at Senwes Park, Potchefstroom.

Australia Updated ODI Squad: Mitchell Marsh (c), Pat Cummins, Xavier Bartlett, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Jack Edwards, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Spencer Johnson, Oliver Peake, Matthew Renshaw, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa.