Back problem could rule Starc out of Ashes series

Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc is in doubt for the start of the Ashes series against England due to a stress fracture in his lower back.

Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc is in doubt for the start of the Ashes series against England due to a stress fracture in his lower back.

Cricket Australia issued a statement Monday saying Starc would be unavailable for a prolonged period but couldn't elaborate on the time frame for his return.

The 23-year-old left-arm paceman was sent home due to back soreness after Australia's 3-0 Ashes series defeat in England, missing the ongoing limited-overs series.

CA chief medical officer Justin Paoloni says Starc faces a long recovery. Starc, who has 12 test caps, joins 23-year-old James Pattinson and 20-year-old Pat Cummins on the list of young Australian fast bowlers sidelined with back injuries.

The next Ashes series starts Nov. 21 in Brisbane.