Australian paceman Pat Cummins has picked up a “slight” side strain and is in doubt for the Cricket World Cup Pool A clash against Afghanistan in Perth.

Cricket Australia (CA) said Cummins, 21, would be monitored by medical staff with his availability still to be confirmed for Wednesday’s WACA clash against Afghanistan as well as Sunday’s crucial match against Sri Lanka.

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A CA spokesperson said Cummins reported the strain after the one-wicket loss to New Zealand in Auckland, but scans showed “nothing serious”.

The fast bowler gave an already injury-hit Australia squad more to worry about when he went over on his right ankle with just his fourth delivery against the Black Caps after slipping in his delivery stride.

He fell over in similar fashion bowling for the Sydney Thunder against the Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League match at the WACA on January 1.

Josh Hazlewood was the most likely bowler to benefit from Cummins’ absence, but all-rounder James Faulkner also remained a chance of playing on Wednesay after declaring himself fit, assuming there are no issues after Monday’s net session.

Faulkner said he would bowl about half a dozen overs in training and, should he get through that, will be available to play against Afghanistan.