Mitch Marsh's horror summer has continued, with the Australian allrounder forced to undergo surgery after being struck in the groin at training.
Marsh copped the hit while batting on Tuesday, and underwent a "minor surgical procedure" on Wednesday.
The 27-year-old has been ruled out of WA's Sheffield Shield clash with NSW in Sydney, starting Sunday.
It remains unclear whether he will be able to return for the March 3-6 Shield clash with South Australia at the WACA Ground.
"Mitch's recovery will be monitored closely over the coming week, before a decision can be made around his availability for the round eight Shield match," team physiotherapist Nick Jones said.
Marsh was on top of the world last summer following a series of breakout performances on the international stage.
But the WA skipper has fallen out of the Australian side in all three formats this summer, and faces a battle to win back his spot in time for the ODI World Cup and the Ashes.
Marsh was hopeful that a strong end to the Shield season would enhance his hopes of an international recall, but his injury setback is a blow.
Marcus Stoinis recently overtook Marsh as Australia's preferred Test allrounder.
Marsh said he saw his axing coming, but has vowed to win back his spot in the Australian sides.
"I've been knocked around a bit this summer," Marsh said during the recent BBL season.
"But my dream of playing Test cricket is still not over. I'm only 27. I'll keep fighting."
Australian Associated Press
