Langer in doubt for first Windies Test with broken rib

MELBOURNE—Opener Justin Langer has broken a rib and is doubtful for next week’s first test against West Indies, Cricket Australia (CA) said on Saturday.
Langer was hit in the chest by a rising delivery from Victoria fast bowler Gerard Denton while batting for Western Australia in their one-day match at Melbourne’s Junction Oval.
After suffering some discomfort, Langer was taken to a nearby hospital for X-rays. They showed a hair-line fracture of the rib, casting doubts on his participation in the first test, which begins at the Gabba in Brisbane on November 3.
“Justin was in considerable pain after receiving the knock to the ribcage, and scans taken of that area have discovered a small fracture in one of his ribs,” CA medical officer Trefor James said in a statement.
“We are optimistic though that he will be able to take his place in the Australian line-up for next week’s test, however he will need to be monitored prior to that time before a final decision is made”.
Langer will still travel to Brisbane to prepare for the test.
West Indies batsman Brian Lara’s run of poor form continued on Saturday, with the world record holder dismissed for just one run in his side’s four-day match in Brisbane against Queensland, their only warmup game before the first test.
Batting at number eight after he sustained a minor finger injury while fielding, Lara lasted just five balls before he attempted a wild cut shot at a delivery from left-armer Mitchell Johnson and chopped the ball on to his stumps.
Lara has been out of form since arriving in Australia to play for the World XI in one-day matches and a six-day test.
The 36-year-old made five and 36 in the test, following on from scores of 0, 5 and 0 in the three one-day matches.
Marlon Samuels scored a career-best 256 in West Indies’ total of 612 in reply to Queensland’s 323.—Agencies