13 December,2013 12:14 AM IST | | AFP
Faulkner, 12th man for the last Test against England and a mooted replacement for injury-troubled bowler Ryan Harris, was hit while batting in the nets.
James Faulkner
"James was struck on the right thumb while batting in the nets and was subsequently taken for an X-ray which revealed a fracture of the thumb," said team doctor Peter Brukner said in a statement.
"As a result he will not be available for the third Test. His progress will be monitored for a return to playing duty depending on how quickly the injury heals."
Harris has been hit by a flare-up in a long-standing knee problem on the eve of the third Test in Perth, although captain Michael Clarke said he expects him to play.
Australia are 2-0 up in the five-match series after big wins in Brisbane and Adelaide, and they can regain the Ashes with another victory in Perth.
