Former Captain Steve Smith Officially Joins Australia's T20 World Cup Squad Amid Injury Concerns

Colombo. Former captain Steve Smith has officially entered the Australian team, which has been struggling in the preliminary stage of the T20 World Cup. Smith has been included in the squad to replace fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, who was sidelined due to injury.

Smith has been added to the team ahead of the crucial match against Sri Lanka on Monday evening, meaning he could take the field if needed. Australia has called upon Smith as the number of key players suffering injuries increases.

Selectors decided to activate Smith in the squad after Mitchell Marsh experienced health issues and Marcus Stoinis also sustained an injury. Australia, under pressure after their defeat against Zimbabwe, must defeat Sri Lanka to keep their chances of reaching the Super Eight stage alive. In this situation, Smith's experience appears very important for the team.

Although he hasn't had many opportunities in recent T20 internationals, Smith demonstrated excellent performance in the Big Bash League (BBL). He has already proven his form by scoring 299 runs at an average of 59.80 and a strike rate of 167.97.

With Australian batters like Travis Head, Cameron Green, and Glenn Maxwell not showing form, Smith's presence is expected to strengthen the middle order. According to chief selector Tony Dodemaide, Smith has been included in the squad as a precaution because the health status of some players remains uncertain.

Smith, returning to the T20 squad for the first time since February 2024, has been scoring runs at an average of 49.73 in various leagues recently.