Steve Smith joins Australia’s T20 World Cup squad as a replacement ahead of the crucial match against Sri Lanka amid Mitchell Marsh’s injury concerns.
Batter Steve Smith has been included in Australia’s T20 World Cup team ahead of Monday’s vital clash with Sri Lanka in Pallekele.
Smith, 36, went to Sri Lanka as a replacement after captain Mitchell Marsh was struck in the groin area last week and experienced “testicular bleeding.”
Smith Drafted In As Australia Battle Injury Concerns
Smith was not formally included in the team, as the management awaited the situation’s progression, but now he enters as a substitute for bowler Josh Hazlewood.
Hazlewood was excluded the day before the tournament and wasn’t substituted.
Selector Tony Dodemaide stated: “With Steve present and some doubts regarding Mitch and Marcus Stoinis, it was logical to activate him and ensure he is available for selection ahead of the match, if needed.”
Smith hasn’t participated in a T20 for Australia since February 2024; however, he tallied a century and two fifties in six Big Bash matches following the Ashes in January, prompting some to argue he should have been included in Australia’s squad anyway.
Australia’s batsmen have faced difficulties in the tournament thus far, getting bowled out for 146 in a loss to Zimbabwe by 23 runs, putting their Super 8s spot in jeopardy.
They won against Ireland by 67 runs in their first match but also suffered a 3-0 defeat in Pakistan before the World Cup.
Australia will be out of the World Cup if they are defeated by Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe wins against Ireland on Tuesday.
They might have to secure victory in both of their last matches and depend on net run-rate.
