Australia’s preparations for the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka and the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy have received a boost with the positive fitness update on Steve Smith.
Initially feared to have sustained a significant elbow injury during a Big Bash League game, Smith has been cleared to play after a medical review.
He will rejoin the Test squad and travel to Dubai, resuming batting later this week to prepare for the first Test.
Smith, who has been named Test captain for the series in Pat Cummins’ absence, will lead a side missing its regular skipper, as Cummins recovers from an ankle injury.
Cricket Australia confirmed that Cummins remains under close observation ahead of the Champions Trophy in 2025, where he will captain the team.
Left-arm spinner Matt Kuhnemann, also recovering from a fractured thumb, is progressing well and may join the squad in Sri Lanka if his recovery continues positively.
This Sri Lanka tour marks the final series of the current World Test Championship cycle, with Australia already securing a spot 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, venue TBC
