Australia has ramped up its firepower for the 2026 T20 World Cup by including Steve Smith in the squad for the high-stakes Group B showdown with Sri Lanka. The fixture at Pallekele Stadium in Candy kicks off Monday at 7 PM, carrying massive implications for both sides.
Replacing injured pacer Josh Hazlewood, Smith arrived as backup for skipper Mitchell Marsh, sidelined by a nets injury that forced him to sit out the first two matches. After joining training sessions on Sunday, Smith is now in contention for a spot.
Chief selector Tony Dodemaide justified the move, noting ICC rules mandate changes at least 24 hours prior. ‘Given the doubts over Marsh and Stoinis, having Steve ready is prudent,’ he remarked. Smith’s experience could prove decisive.
Expectations are that Marsh will resume opening duties, potentially benching Smith for now. But any setback for the captain would catapult the former skipper into action—his first international T20 outing since early 2024. Smith’s BBL heroics had already sparked World Cup rumors.
Boasting 1,094 T20I runs from 67 matches with five fifties, Smith’s track record speaks volumes. For Australia, victory over Sri Lanka is non-negotiable; defeat risks a premature exit. This addition underscores the team’s resolve to navigate injuries and secure progression.