Australia suffer injury scare ahead of Champions Trophy

Smith has a history of elbow injuries

By Web Desk
January 19, 2025
Australia's Steve Smith (centre) celebrates with teammates after winning the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 on November 19, 2023. — ICC

Former champions Australia suffered a potential hit to their ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 preparations as their senior batter Steve Smith suffered an elbow injury, international media reported on Sunday.

According to a report, Smith sustained the injury to his right elbow while throwing a ball during Sydney Sixers’ washed-out match against Sydney Thunder in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) 14 on Friday.

Smith has a history of elbow injuries and has undergone a surgery in 2019.

The right-handed batter is due to lead Australia in the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, scheduled to commence later this month, as regular captain Pat Cummins is on paternity leave.

The report further shared that the injury has delayed Smith’s departure for the team's training camp in Dubai as he seeks advice from a specialist.

Meanwhile, as per a statement from Cricket Australia (CA), the 35-year-old will now depart for Dubai later this week.

Notably, Smith’s injury marks another concern for the 2009 champions, who are sweating on the recovery of their longer formats captain Cummins.

The right-arm pacer will seek further advice as he recovers from "increased left ankle soreness" following the recently concluded five-match Test series against India, where he bowled the most number of overs by any bowler.

Cummins was named captain of Australia’s preliminary squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 but his participation in the eight-team tournament remains unclear.

"He will seek specialist rehabilitation advice this week and is likely to require a period of physical preparation and recovery," CA said. "The [national selection panel] will continue to monitor Cummins' recovery leading into the Champions Trophy."

Australia's Squad: Pat Cummins (C), Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.

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