CHENNAI: Fast bowler Peter Siddle will return home after becoming the latest member of Australia’s touring party to be forced out of the one-day series in India.

Siddle experienced stiffness in his left side during the tourists’ 24-run victory in the fourth one-day international in Mohali on Monday in which he bowled five overs.

Australia won the low-scoring match to level the seven-match series 2-2 with game five to be played in Hyderabad on Thursday.

‘Peter’s injury does not appear to be a serious problem but it is unlikely he will be able to safely bowl within the next week which would therefore not allow him to have any further participation in the tour,’ a Cricket Australia statement said on Tuesday.

‘With this in mind we have made the decision that Peter will return to Australia where he will (be) reviewed by Cricket Australia medical staff to ensure he is available for selection at the beginning of the Australian summer.’

A replacement has yet to be named.

Strike bowler Brett Lee, all-rounder James Hopes and stand-in wicketkeeper Tim Paine have already returned home with injuries while first choice wicketkeeper Brad Haddin, vice-captain Michael Clarke and left-arm seamer Nathan Bracken did not make the tour due to injuries.—AP