James Pattinson ruled out of the Ashes for Australia with back injury

(Photo: Sarah Ansell / Getty Images)

By Adam Ellis

James Pattinson is out of selection for Australia’s Ashes squad after a lower back stress fracture ended his hopes.

The Australian seamer was in fine form for Nottinghamshire in this year’s County Championship taking 32 wickets in five matches at an impressive average of 12.06 to help Chris Read’s side to promotion – with his absence prompting bets for England with Betfair Sports Review and Free Bets.

The 27-year-old missed Australia’s tour to Bangladesh last month after aggravating the injury and expressed his sorrow at missing out on the chance to play in a home Ashes series.

“Obviously I am extremely disappointed with this setback after just getting back into a good run of playing cricket,” said Pattinson, who has taken 70 wickets for his country in 17 Tests.

“I’m especially disappointed to miss out on the possibility to play in a home Ashes series.

“Over the next few weeks I will discuss all available options available to me with medical staff, to work out the best plan to prevent this from happening again.”

Pattinson will be taking an ‘indefinite break’ from cricket as he begins his rehabilitation for the same injury that cost England bowler Toby Roland-Jones an Ashes spot.

The first Test gets underway at The Gabba in Brisbane on 23 November and Australia seek to replicate their 5-0 whitewash of 2013-14 to reclaim the urn.