Steve O'Keefe To Miss Test Series in Sri Lanka Due to Injury

Steve O'Keefe's Sri Lankan Test series is over. The 31-year-old Australian left-arm spinner injured his hamstring while chasing a ball during the second session of play in the first Test in Pallekele on Thursday.

Steve O'Keefe took two wickets in the Sri Lankan first innings and added another when the home team batted for a second time in a rain-affected game.

Australian team physiotherapist David Beakley said: "Initial assessment indicates a moderate grade hamstring injury which means it is highly unlikely that he will be available for the remainder of the Test series.

"Steve will remain with the squad in Kandy until the end of the Test and will undertake imaging on the injury upon his return to Australia."

Victorian left-arm orthodox bowler Holland has been named in the squad to replace O'Keefe.

National selector Rod Marsh said: "It is incredibly disappointing for Steve to get this injury and I really feel for him. He was bowling well in the Test and had caused some trouble to Sri Lanka's top order.

"The selectors have decided to go for a like-for-like replacement for Steve, in Jon Holland.

"Jon had a good end to the Sheffield Shield season and is currently in Brisbane with Australia A as they prepare for a four-day match against South Africa A.

"He will be on a plane as soon as possible and is a strong chance to make his debut in the Galle Test."

Victoria's Glenn Maxwell has been named as a replacement for Holland in the Australia A squad that will take on South Africa A in a four-day match at Allan Border Field beginning on Saturday.