Finch takes out an umpire with drive

Australia's destructive start to the fourth Victoria Bitter One-Day International against India has claimed an unexpected victim – English umpire Richard Kettleborough.

Openers David Warner and Aaron Finch hammered a century partnership in 16.1 overs at Manuka Oval and Kettleborough was an unfortunate road block to a booming drive from Finch in the sixth over.

Image Id: ~/media/112EE8C03D6549B68AC4C500AAC89396

Finch launched himself into a full delivery from Ishant Sharma, the ball racing back down the pitch before a deflection off the bowler’s fingertips saw it cannon into Kettleborough's shin at the non-striker's end.

The Englishman understandably took some time to compose himself, sharing a laugh and a joke with the batsman and appeared happy to continue, but later limped from the field when drinks were called after 17 overs.

WATCH: Finch hits umpire, India gift back five

Kettleborough had received treatment out on the ground from the Australian team's medical staff before he was replaced by TV umpire Paul Wilson.

Cricket Australia said Kettleborough was in a fair amount of discomfort and was unlikely to return to the field of play.

Kettleborough's officiating partner John Ward wore a helmet during Australia’s innings and Kettleborough's injury was yet another reminder of the dangers umpires face in the modern game.

In December, Ward was hospitalised after being struck on the head during a Ranji Trophy match in India.

The Australian official was taken to hospital for scans and was ordered to take a break from the game in order to recover.

Also last month, umpire Gerard Abood wore a helmet during a KFC Big Bash League clash at Etihad Stadium, telling cricket.com.au that the power of modern batsmen makes officiating out in the middle a task fraught with danger.

Gerard Abood reports back on his historic helmet choice, while Phillip Gillespie brings drama of his own with some unexpected arm movements