Paine’s injury another blow

JOHANNESBURG: Tim Paine’s broken thumb has added injury to Australian cricket’s indignity, with the courageous captain hurting the same right hand that once threatened to end his career.

Paine suffered a hairline fracture on day two of the fourth test against South Africa, after misreading a delivery from Chadd Sayers while up to the stumps.

Paine continued to keep in Johannesburg then came out to bat later when Australia collapsed to five for 96.

The Tasmanian, who was five not out overnight, continued his innings on day three.

The resilience of the nation’s 46th test captain will leave a big impression on teammates.

Australia’s next assignment is an ODI series in England that starts on June 13, leaving the 33yearold plenty of time to prove his fitness.

Paine has already earned praise from around the world for changing Australia’s inyourface approach, having stopped its sledging and introduced a pregame handshake with the Proteas on Friday.

Paine’s right index finger was broken after being struck by a 148.2kmh thunderbolt from Dirk Nannes in 2010.

He still has eight pins, a metal plate and a piece of hip bone in the finger.

Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft have sought legal advice and are considering challenging bans levelled by Cricket Australia (CA).

The suspended trio all acknowledge erring in Cape Town but have not formally accepted or challenged their charge or sanctions issued by CA. — AAP

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