Batter Steve Smith has been added to Australia’s T20 World Cup squad in time for Monday’s essential match towards Sri Lanka in Pallekele.
Smith, 36, travelled to Sri Lanka as cowl after captain Mitchell Marsh was hit within the groin space final week and suffered “testicular bleeding”.
Smith was not formally added to the squad, with the administration ready to see how the scenario developed, however now is available in as a alternative for bowler Josh Hazlewood.
Hazlewood was ruled out on the eve of the tournament and never changed.
Selector Tony Dodemaide mentioned: “With Steve right here, together with some uncertainty round Mitch and Marcus Stoinis, it made sense he’s activated and out there for choice in time for the match, if required.”
Smith has not performed a T20 for Australia since February 2024 however scored a century and two fifties in six matches within the Large Bash after the Ashes in January, main some to recommend he ought to have been in Australia’s squad regardless.
Australia’s batters have struggled within the match thus far, bowled out for 146 all out in a 23-run defeat by Zimbabwe to depart their place within the Tremendous 8s.
They beat Eire by 67 runs of their opening match but additionally misplaced 3-0 in Pakistan previous to the World Cup.
Australia can be eradicated from the World Cup in the event that they lose to Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe beat Eire on Tuesday.
They might must win each their remaining video games and depend on web run-rate.
