Mennie sidelined after skull fracture

AUSTRALIA bowler Joe Mennie has been released from hospital after scans revealed a small fracture to his skull and minor bleeding on the brain.

Mennie, 28, was hit by a straight drive from ex-England batsman Michael Lumb as he practised in the nets for the Sydney Sixers on Monday.

He initially went to the hospital that day, but was released the same evening having undergone tests. But follow-up scans on Tuesday revealed the injury was more serious than feared, and Mennie was sent back to hospital for observation.

Cricket Australia chief medical officer Dr John Orchard said: “Joe was reviewed by a Cricket Australia doctor on Tuesday and had some scans performed that revealed a small fracture and associated minor brain bleed.

“Whilst this is a serious injury, Joe is feeling well.

“We believe that this is a stable injury and will not require surgery. As a precautionary measure, Joe has been admitted to hospital for observation and will continue to be assessed by a neurosurgeon to determine best course of action.”

Mennie made his Test debut for Australia in November, taking one wicket as South Africa won by an innings and 80 runs in Hobart.

He missed the Sixers’ Super Over victory over Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash semi-final and is unlikely to be available for the final against Perth Scorchers.