Jake Fraser-McGurk sent home from Under-19 World Cup after being scratched by monkey

The 17-year-old Australian was visiting a nature reserve with his side when the incident occurred

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Australia Under-19s opening batsman Jake Fraser-McGurk is to return home from the Under-19 World Cup after being scratched on the face by a monkey.

The 17-year-old was visiting a nature reserve with his side when the incident occurred. After discussion with medical staff and his own family, it was agreed that the Victoria teenager should leave the competition for precautionary treatment.

Australia, who were beaten by India in the quarter-finals of the tournament on Tuesday, may call in a replacement for their final two games.

“We want to make sure that Jake doesn't have any ongoing medical concerns as a result of the incident so we have taken the best course of action,” said Alex Kountouris, Cricket Australia's sports science and sports medicine manager.

“This involves the player returning to Australia for the treatment required within the recommended seven days of the incident taking place.

“We expect Jake will be available for selection shortly after he has completed the treatment.”

Fraser-McGurk added his own disappointment at having to depart the competition early, with his team’s final games determining Australia’s ranking at the next Under-19 World Cup, which will take place in West Indies.

“You never like to be leaving the boys with the tournament still in progress,” he admitted. “But I'm confident we have the team to get the job done in the final two matches.

“I guess it serves me right for getting too close to the animal enclosure. That's a lesson learned. I look forward to completing the treatment and getting back on the field as soon as possible.

“I'd like to thank all the staff from the nature reserve and Cricket Australia for their care and support.”

Image © ICC Business Corporation FZ LLC 2018

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