Recent Test debutant Michael Neser has been ruled out of Australia's touring party to Pakistan after scans confirmed the 31-year-old had suffered a side strain.
The South African-born seamer injured himself during the warm-up of Queensland's Marsh Cup loss New South Wales at the Gabba on Tuesday.
Despite succumbing to the strain prior to the toss, Neser took the new ball for the hometown team, however, his stint at the popping crease came to a close after just two deliveries.
Michael Neser leaves the field after just two balls 😬
Let's hope he's ok. Marnus Labuschagne to finish his over off the long run.
Watch #MarshCup live: https://t.co/CN9pkyifng pic.twitter.com/iuWGhsVZ4o
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) February 14, 2022
Bulls coach Wade Seccombe confirmed to cricket.com.au that while the timing was unlucky for the veteran, Cricket Australia would be consulted about a specific plan to see Neser return to action at the best available time.
Neser will now miss the plane bound for Pakistan which is set to jet off within the next fortnight and will be forced to wait to add to his sole Test cap gained during the Adelaide leg of the recent Ashes series.
Still, in warmer news for his fellow statesmen, Mark Steketee has been named as Neser's replacement following an eleventh-hour alteration to the touring party's squad.
The 28-year-old will be provided another chance to hone his cract when Queensland faces Victoria at the Junction Oval during their Sheffield Shield clash scheduled to commence on Friday.
Steketee remains the competition's leading wicket-taker this summer, with 29 poles from his five starts.