Steve Smith to miss limited-overs matches against Pakistan
Steve Smith won’t be able to continue playing against Pakistan. A discomfort in his left elbow has ruled him out of Australia’s upcoming limited-overs series with Pakistan.
As a backup option, Australia has added legspinner Mitchell Swepson to the squad, who will act as a fourth bowler in Smith’s absence. Smith will travel back to Australia with Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and David Warner after they won the 1-0 test series in Pakistan. The Australian white-ball squad is also missing Glenn Maxwell, who got married last week.
2nd Test starts tomorrow in Karachi. Let’s go! #pakvsaus #excited pic.twitter.com/UaZJzhuYyz
— Steve Smith (@stevesmith49) March 11, 2022
New world record by Steve Smith
During the Test series, Smith broke the world record for the fastest score of 8000 Test runs. He has been managing his elbow over a long period of time, so Australia took a cautious approach.
What is George Bailey’s opinion?
While Smith’s absence from the match against Pakistan is upsetting, he understands why after consulting with the medical team. Keeping on top of things now will save it from becoming something more serious later on. He does not consider this a serious concern.
George Bailey, Chairman of selectors, does not feel it is important to risk Smith in the next four matches due to the quantity of cricket Australia will play from June onwards. In light of the considerable amount of cricket to come over the next 18 months, as well as the fact that he has previously had an issue with the same elbow, it is appropriate for Steve to return home after the Pakistan Test series.
Special, special series. Immensely satisfied for this group to win the series in the last session of 15 tough days of Test Cricket. 🇦🇺
Huge thanks to PCB and all over here in Pakistan for the brilliant hospitality. pic.twitter.com/vQrO2x635T
— Pat Cummins (@patcummins30) March 26, 2022
Australia’s upcoming matches
Australia’s next assignment will be a three-format tour of Sri Lanka starting on June 7. Smith was not picked up in the IPL auction and will have over two months of rest.
The ongoing series against the Pakistan team provides an opportunity for players to stake a claim for their place in the upcoming T20 World Cup and 50-over Cricket World Cup in Asia. Pakistan and Australia will play three ODIs beginning on Tuesday and the only T20I on April 5. As a result of political issues, all four matches have been moved to Lahore from Rawalpindi.
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