Australia Boosted by Positive Fitness Update Ahead of Sri Lanka Series and Champions Trophy
As the Australian squad gears up for a two-match Test series in Sri Lanka, followed closely by the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy, they have received a significant boost. Steve Smith’s elbow injury, initially feared to be severe, has been deemed less serious than anticipated.
The 35-year-old, appointed as Test captain for the Sri Lanka series in the absence of Pat Cummins, sustained a right elbow injury while attempting a throw during a Big Bash League fixture on Friday.
However, Cricket Australia has confirmed that Smith has been cleared to play.
“Steve Smith has undergone a specialist medical review today following his right elbow injury sustained during the Big Bash League. He has been cleared to rejoin the Test squad and travel to Dubai,” Cricket Australia stated.
“Smith is expected to return to batting later in the week to begin his preparation for the first Test against Sri Lanka.”
This news comes as a relief to an Australian side already missing captain Cummins due to an ankle injury.
Cricket Australia has also confirmed that the National Selection Panel is closely monitoring Cummins, who has been named captain for the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.
READ MORE – Pat Cummins to lead Australia at ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025
Also on the recovery path is left-arm spinner Matt Kuhnemann, who suffered a fractured thumb while playing in the Big Bash League earlier this week.
Kuhnemann, included in Australia’s Test squad for Sri Lanka, is expected to resume bowling this week. If his recovery progresses well, he aims to join the squad in Sri Lanka.
The tour of Sri Lanka marks the final series of the current World Test Championship cycle, with Australia already securing a place in June’s final against South Africa.
Australia Tour of Sri Lanka, Schedule:
- 1st Test, 29th January-2nd February 2025, Galle
- 2nd Test, 6th-10th February 2025, Galle
- 1st ODI, 12th February 2025, Galle
- 2nd ODI, 14th February 2025, TBC