Key bowler not selected as Covid threatens to curtail Australia's T20 World Cup campaign

Spin bowling all-rounder Ashton Agar takes Zampa's spot in the side, with Aaron Finch winning the toss and electing to bowl.

A team spokesperson confirmed earlier on Tuesday that Zampa recently returned a positive test, but is only displaying minor symptoms. Under current regulations set by the ICC and national authorities, Zampa would have been allowed to take part should he have been selected.

It's not the first time Covid-19 has played a part in this year's event with Ireland's George Dockrell playing in his team's opening Super 12 encounter, coincidentally against Sri Lanka. Dockrell was forced to travel separately from his teammates, with team medical staff managing his movements and interactions. If Zampa was to be selected, he and Cricket Australia would need to operate under the same guidelines.

Zampa's absence is a significant blow to the hosts' chance to go back-to-back winners of the T20 World Cup, with the side already on the ropes following their defeat to New Zealand on Sunday.

The leg-spinner was a crucial cog in Australia's successful 2021 campaign, second to Wanindu Hasaranga on the wickets tally in UAE and Oman.

Agar meanwhile makes an appearance in front of his home domestic fans in Perth, and matching his one match at last year's event. He claimed figures of 1/15 from 2.4 overs in Australia's meeting with South Africa, before sliding out for an extra batter in the side.

Agar also played in Australia’s warm-up game against India, though has nursed a side strain for most of the Australian winter.