T20 World Cup: Australia add Steve Smith to their squad ahead of Sri Lanka decider

Batter Steve Smith has been added to Australia’s T20 World Cup squad in time for Monday’s crucial match against Sri Lanka in Pallekele.

Smith (36 years old) traveled to Sri Lanka as cover after captain Mitchell Marsh was injured in the thigh area last week and suffered a “testicular hemorrhage.”

Smith has not been officially added to the squad, as the management waits to see how the situation develops, but he now comes in as a replacement for bowler Josh Hazlewood.

Hazlewood was dropped on the eve of the tournament and was not replaced.

“With Steve here, coupled with some uncertainty over Mitch and Marcus Stoinis, it made sense that he would be revitalized and available for selection in time for the game, if needed,” selector Tony Dudemaid said.

Smith has not played a T20 side for Australia since February 2024 but scored a century and a fifty in six matches in the Big Bash after the Ashes in January, leading some to suggest he should have been in Australia’s squad regardless.

Australia’s spinners have struggled in the tournament so far, bowling out for 146 in 23 overs against Zimbabwe to cede their place in the Super 8s.

They beat Ireland by 67 runs in their opening match, but also lost 3-0 in Pakistan before the World Cup.

Australia will be eliminated from the World Cup if they lose to Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe beat Ireland on Tuesday.

They may need to win the remaining matches and rely on net run rate.