Australia has been dealt a potential setback ahead of their Test series in Sri Lanka, with stand-in captain Steven Smith sustaining an elbow injury during the Big Bash League (BBL).
Smith, who has a history of elbow troubles, injured his right arm while fielding for the Sydney Sixers in their rain-affected match against the Sydney Thunder on Friday.
The injury has delayed Smith’s departure to Dubai, where the Australian team is holding a training camp in preparation for the Sri Lanka series. Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed that Smith is consulting a specialist and is hopeful of joining the camp later this week.
Smith is slated to captain the side for the two-Test series in Galle, stepping in for regular skipper Pat Cummins, who is on paternity leave. However, if Smith is deemed unfit, it could pave the way for Travis Head to make his debut as a Test captain.
In addition to concerns over Smith, Australia is monitoring the fitness of left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann. Kuhnemann recently underwent surgery for a fractured right thumb sustained during a match against the Hobart Hurricanes. Despite the setback, there is optimism that he might be available for the tour.
Australia’s first Test against Sri Lanka is set to begin in Galle later this month, and the team will be hoping for Smith’s swift recovery to avoid further disruption to their plans.
