5 cricketers who missed games due to unusual reasons

3. Matthew Hayden

Matthew Hayden - Australia vs England, 2006

In 2006, Matthew Hayden broke his finger while ducking against a bouncer in a Sheffield Shield match. But then another injury added to his woes as he was bitten by a dog while taking a run during the next match. The bite opened a 5 cm gash on his ankle.

Hayden said in an interview with the Sunday Mail, "It was a vicious attack. It just hasn't been my week."

He recovered in time to play for the Ashes series which Australia won quite comfortably by the scoreline of 5-0.

2. Aaron Finch

Aaron Finch - Australia v India

The reason will surprise many, as Aaron Finch had to sit out of the game against Gujarat Lions at the Wankhede Stadium because he didn't have his kit bag with him. Because Finch missed the game, Jason Roy got a chance to play instead.

You might wonder why he couldn't have played the game by buying or borrowing a different kit. But after the game, Brendon McCullum clarified to the media and cricket experts that Finch's contract with the sponsors did not allow him to use any other kit to play the game.

1. Sydney Barnes

Sydney Barnes

The legendary bowler from England was approached by the MCC to accompany the English team while touring for the 1920-21 Ashes series. Sydney Barnes was 47 years old and hence wanted his wife and kids to accompany him. MCC refused his request, so he did not travel.

The eccentricity of Barnes was well-known, but this time it cost England their first ever 5-0 defeat at the hands of Australia.