All-rounder Glenn Maxwell has been ruled out of Australia’s T20I series against the Proteas this month.

Maxwell will undergo elbow surgery instead of participating in the three-match T20I series. He has been replaced by wrist-spinning all-rounder D’Arcy Short.

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‘We are disappointed to lose Glenn this close to the tour as we were looking forward to welcoming him back to the national side in both the 20- and 50-over formats after his break during the summer,’ said national selector Trevor Hohns.

‘Unfortunately, the pain he has experienced in the elbow in the latter stages of the Big Bash League increased over the weekend and he will have surgery immediately to rectify the situation.

‘An opportunity has now presented itself for D’Arcy and we’re confident he’ll make the most of whatever opportunities come his way in South Africa. Like Glenn, D’Arcy is an inventive, hard-hitting batsman who offers a handy spin-bowling option. We have no doubt he will make a positive contribution to the squad.’

The 31-year-old Maxwell has not played international cricket since October 2019 due to mental health concerns.

‘Representing Australia is the highest honour in cricket and something I cherish. I was not confident that I could perform at international level with my elbow in its current state and have decided to undergo surgery straight away to fix the issue,’ added Maxwell.

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