Smith Discloses Wrist Injury from Lord’s Ashes Test
Australian cricketer Steven Smith has disclosed that he played through the final three matches of the Ashes series with a left wrist injury that he sustained while fielding during the second Test at Lord’s. Smith’s injury, A small tendon tear in Smith’s left wrist requires him to wear a splint and has led to his absence from Australia’s upcoming limited-overs tour of South Africa.
He remains optimistic about his recovery timeline, hoping to be fit for Australia’s three-match ODI series against India starting on September 22, which leaves him with limited time to prepare for the 50-over World Cup in India, set to begin in October.
Smith shared that he hurt his wrist while fielding at Lord’s, though he only realized the extent of the damage after. Despite the injury, he continued to play in the subsequent matches, relying on cortisone injections to manage the pain. Smith’s wrist injury adds to Australia’s injury concerns, as Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins are also dealing with injuries after the Ashes series.
A Showcase of Talent: Rohit’s Standout Performances
The absence of Smith impacts Australia’s plans for settling their top four batsmen ahead of the World Cup. The opening partnership of David Warner and Travis Head has been fruitful, but Mitchell Marsh’s power-hitting capability could compel selectors to include him in the top three, potentially forcing Smith to bat at No. 4. This situation contrasts with Smith’s historical position at No. 3, where he has a prolific record with an average of 60.70 in his last 23 ODI innings.
Smith’s T20 international career could be affected by his injury. He was set to open in the T20I series against South Africa, to secure his place in Australia’s T20I lineup for the T20 World Cup. This opportunity has been delayed due to the injury but he has displayed strong form as an opener for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League, making him a potential asset against spin bowling on challenging surfaces.
Smith’s discussions with Australian coach Andrew McDonald revealed plans to give him opportunities to prove his suitability as an opener in T20Is in the future. Despite his current setback, Smith remains keen on the prospect of opening in T20s, appreciating the flexibility and relatively lower pressure associated with the role.
Australia’s schedule includes T20Is in India after the ODI World Cup and the upcoming South Africa series, but resting players across formats is expected with a busy calendar.
Latest News
Casemiro’s Struggle Sparks Man Utd Midfield Call
Venus Williams Withdraws from WTA Cleveland
Usman Khawaja Joins Fox Cricket Commentary Team
Spain defeats England, 2023 Women’s World Cup
T20: India beats Ireland by 33 runs, leads 2-0
– Advertisement –
– Advertisement –
– Advertisement –
– Advertisement –
– Advertisement –