オーストラリアのキャプテンシーの難問：カミンズが休暇中、スミスはオーストラリア対SLツアーの直前に負傷

In what could be a big blow for Australia, Steve Smith has suffered an elbow injury just before the AUS vs SL Test series. The middle-order batter was named captain for the side in the absence of Pat Cummins who is set to miss the series due to the birth of his second child. While Smith is set to join the rest of the team later this week, it remains to be seen what is the extent of his injury.

Steve Smith injured just before AUS vs SL series

As per reports, Smith suffered the injury while training amid the Big Bash League (BBL). While he is expected to link up with the rest of the side soon, clarity on his availability will only be available following updates from specialists. Meanwhile, Pat Cummins is currently out of action also because of an ankle injury that he sustained during Australia’s summer campaign.

“Smith is preparing to join the test squad in Dubai later this week following further specialist input. Further updates will be shared as they are known,” said an Australian Press release.

Latest news

While Smith has been named captain for the SL tour, Travis Head has been named his deputy. Opener Nathan McSweeney, who was dropped after IND vs AUS 3rd Test for his troubles against Jasprit Bumrah, has been called back to the squad while 19-year-old Sam Konstas has retained his spot. One of the youngest debutants for Australia, Konstas turned heads with his aggressive style of batting coupled with innovative shots in the series against India.

AUS vs SL Tests schedule

1. 1st Test – January 29-February 2 (Galle)
2. 2nd Test – February 6-February 10 (Galle)