Stephen O’Keefe pulls out of Big Bash to prepare for India tour

Sydney : Australia is preparing well for the tour of India. The world has seen how India mauled England in the 5 match Test series winning 4-0. Recently, the Aussies have clean sweep the Test series against Pakistan.

To prepare well for turning tracks, Cricket Australia (CA) has pulled out left-arm spinner Stephen O’Keefe from the ongoing Big Bash League to give him more practise time with the red ball.

Stephen O’Keefe and Nathan Lyon, are expected to form the core of spin department in India. Both of them are playing for Sydney Sixers in the BBL 2016-17.

 After his recent injuries, which have caused him to miss Sheffield Shield matches this season, O’Keefe had a lot less red ball match practice than other players that are likely to tour India.  

Australia are looking to improve their Test record in India, having been whitewashed 4-0 in their previous outing. The Aussies haven’t won a Test match in India since 2004.

The first Test of the four match series begins in Pune from February 23.