JONNY Bairstow suffered an injury scare as Chris Woakes starred on the first day of England’s final tour match before the Ashes.
A suspected finger injury saw Bairstow briefly leave the field in the second session of England’s clash against a Cricket Australia XI at Tony Ireland Stadium in Townsville yesterday.

Bairstow suffered the injury diving to his right to take a delivery that kept low.
However, the wicketkeeper returned shortly after as the hosts – who won the toss and elected to bat – finished the day at 249-9.

Woakes was the star for England, grabbing 6-54 in an impressive display.
Veteran paceman James Anderson was rested, while Moeen Ali (0-39) featured for the first time on tour after a side strain.

England’s inconsistent lines allowed the CA XI to put on 66 for the first wicket, but the tourists fought back.
Craig Overton (2-32) did his first Test chances no harm and got some reward, while Stuart Broad finished with 1-33.

CA XI captain Matthew Short (51) top-scored on a warm day in Queensland.
But as question marks remain over England’s batting ahead of the first Test at the Gabba starting November 23, their top six will get a chance to find some form today.