Lance Morris’ side strain adds to New Zealand series unpredictability

Lance Morris. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)

After a long wait, Lance Morris made his international debut in the first ODI against West Indies at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. However, the nerves got the better of him as the 25-year-old failed to clinch a wicket. He was benched for the second ODI in Sydney and on his return to the playing XI in Canberra, the pacer picked up the wickets of Keacy Carty and Teddy Bishop before walking out with a side strain.

He was into his fifth over when the incident happened as the cricketer was spotted icing the injured area in the dressing room. Soon after that, Morris was taken for scans to determine the severity of his injury. Even though Cricket Australia (CA) is yet to make an official announcement regarding the nature of the injury, it is believed that the pacer might miss the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand, which is slated to begin on February 29.

Meanwhile, before playing his second international match, Morris opened up about his difficulties on his debut and added that he felt much better in Canberra.

“There’s no doubt I felt a bit more relaxed leading into today. Naturally, when you debut, there’s things going on all around you. I probably got caught up in the emotions a bit the other day. A huge relief for sure (to get that first wicket). It probably wasn’t the textbook nick-off but you take them how they come,” Morris told Fox Cricket.

I think Morris got a bit better rhythm today: Steven Smith

Skipper Steven Smith was impressed with Morris’ bowling in the third ODI against West Indies. The 34-year-old stated that the Western Australian pacer was in a better rhythm than he was in his debut and added that they will know about about his injury after the scan result comes out.

“He was bowling nicely . I think he got a bit better rhythm today, he was probably a little bit nervous maybe the other day making his debut. But he was starting to get some nice rhythm and then he just said he had a bit of pain in his side and was struggling a bit. So I think he’ll get a scan in the next 12 to 24 hours and they’ll know more then,” Smith said.