Star Australian batter Steve Smith has been cleared to join his team ahead of their crucial matches, including the Test series against Sri Lanka and the Champions Trophy 2025. This news comes as a relief for Australian cricket fans after concerns over his recent elbow injury.
Smith, who was appointed stand-in captain for the Sri Lanka series due to Pat Cummins’ absence, injured his right elbow while throwing during a Big Bash League match on January 17. This raised doubts about his availability for both the Test series and the Champions Trophy, scheduled from February to March 2025.
Fortunately, Cricket Australia confirmed on Monday that Smith passed his fitness test after undergoing a detailed medical evaluation. A statement from the cricket board revealed, “Steve Smith has undergone a specialist medical review today following his right elbow injury sustained during the Big Bash League. He has been cleared to rejoin the Test squad and travel to Dubai.”
The star batter will return to batting practice later in the week to gear up for the opening Test match against Sri Lanka. This series holds significance as it concludes Australia’s World Test Championship cycle. Australia has already secured their place in the WTC final against South Africa, scheduled for June 2025.
Meanwhile, Pat Cummins, Australia’s regular ODI and Test captain, is recovering from an ankle injury he sustained during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While Cummins has been named captain for the Champions Trophy, he remains under medical observation.
Australia’s tour of Sri Lanka marks a pivotal moment for the team, serving as their final preparation before competing in the Champions Trophy. The prestigious tournament will kick off on February 19, with defending champions Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi.
Here is the Australian squad for the Champions Trophy 2025:
Pat Cummins (c), Alex Carey (wk), Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, and Adam Zampa.
Smith’s recovery and return bring fresh hope for Australia as they aim to excel in the upcoming tournaments. With the Champions Trophy and World Test Championship final on the horizon, the team will rely on his experience and leadership to maintain their strong performance on the global stage.
Australia’s cricket fans can now look forward to seeing their team in action, with all eyes on Smith and the squad as they aim for glory.
