Australia has received a significant boost ahead of its must-win encounter against co-hosts Sri Lanka in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on Monday (Feb 16), with Steve Smith officially confirmed as Josh Hazlewood’s replacement in the 15-member squad.
Smith, who was left out of the initial squad selection, arrived in the Island Nation just in time for the Sri Lanka fixture and is expected to feature in the playing XI. While he was initially announced as cover for regular skipper Mitchell Marsh, who sustained a groin injury before the Ireland match, Smith has taken the place vacated by Hazlewood, who was withdrawn from the tournament due to a last-minute injury.
The veteran batter participated in training with the Australian squad on Sunday (Feb 15) in Pallekele ahead of the Group B clash, marking his return to T20I cricket for the first time in approximately two years. Meanwhile, Marsh also underwent an extended net session, displaying encouraging signs of recovery. His teammate and all-rounder Marcus Stoinis has likewise been cleared following an injury concern picked up during the Zimbabwe match.
“ICC regulations stipulate any squad change must be submitted and activated at least one day prior to a match,” selector Tony Dodemaide said. “With Steve here, along with some uncertainty around Mitch and Marcus Stoinis, it made sense he [Smith] is activated and available for selection in time for the match, if required.”
For Australia to remain in contention for a Super 8 berth, they must secure victories against Sri Lanka and Oman in their final two group fixtures, while also relying on other results to go their way to maintain an advantage over Zimbabwe on Net Run Rate (NRR).
Smith’s Recent T20 Form
Smith has not been Australia’s preferred option in the shortest format and last represented the national side in February 2024. However, his recent performances in T20 cricket have been impressive, potentially benefiting both himself and Australia with his inclusion.
Following his leadership of Australia during the home Ashes this summer, Smith guided his Big Bash League (BBL) franchise, the Sydney Sixers, to another final, where they fell to eventual champions, the Perth Scorchers.
In the recently concluded BBL season, Smith opened the batting for the Sixers and accumulated 299 runs across six matches, registering one century and one half-century. He averaged just under 60 with a strike rate of 167.97. In contrast, his T20I statistics are less impressive, with an average of 24.86 and a strike rate marginally above 125.
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