Tim Paine breaks finger in All-Stars game

Tim Paine, Australia's backup wicketkeeper, faces some time on the sidelines after breaking the index finger on his right hand during the All-Stars Twenty20 match in Brisbane. Paine was batting when he was struck on the hand by a 148.2kph rising delivery from Dirk Nannes, and he immediately retired hurt.

Channel Nine had Paine miked up during his innings and as he left the field with his glove off, he said it felt "seriously no good". When asked if he thought a bone was broken, he replied: "I think so."

Paine was sent to hospital and x-rays revealed what was described as "a clean crack" in the finger, although it was not clear on Sunday night how long he would be out of action.

Paine firmly established himself as the second in line to Brad Haddin this year, playing four Tests in England and India while Haddin was injured. Paine performed well in his first Tests, collecting 17 dismissals and averaging 35.87 with the bat.

However, Paine was not expected to play any part in the Ashes unless Haddin suffered another injury. Haddin will play the first Test at the Gabba starting on Thursday, and it will be his first Test appearance since the tour of New Zealand in March.