UPDATE: Australia’s cricket selectors have just announced that Steve Smith will captain the national team in the upcoming Ashes series as Pat Cummins recovers from injury. This decision comes amidst concerns over Cameron Green’s fitness after he was withdrawn from the ODI squad due to “side soreness.”
Earlier today, George Bailey, Australia’s selection chair, confirmed that Green’s scans showed no serious strain. Instead, the selectors believe that allowing him to forgo the flight to Adelaide and play in the next rounds of the Sheffield Shield for Western Australia is the best way to prepare him for his role as an allrounder in the Ashes.
“It’s a very conservative decision around getting that right, playing Shield three and four,” Bailey stated. He emphasized that Green might not bowl extensively in the first Test but is on track to contribute as an allrounder.
Smith has returned from New York and jumped straight into training at Cricket NSW the very next day. He is set to play in the upcoming Sheffield Shield matches for New South Wales in Brisbane and Sydney. Bailey assured that if Cummins is unable to play, Smith will lead the team seamlessly.
“If Pat doesn’t play, Smudge will captain,” Bailey said. “That’s business as usual for us.” He also noted that Cummins will remain involved with the team, continuing his rehabilitation while supporting Smith.
In addition to Green’s situation, Bailey confirmed that Beau Webster is being encouraged to take his time recovering from a sprained ankle, ensuring he is fully fit for the Ashes. This cautious approach highlights the selectors’ commitment to player health amid injury concerns for both Cummins and Green.
The selection panel is closely monitoring players, including Marnus Labuschagne, who is set to fly to Perth after completing his match in Adelaide. The final squad for the first Ashes Test will be finalized following the third round of the Sheffield Shield.
With the Ashes just around the corner, cricket fans are eager for updates on player performances and injury statuses. Bailey expressed his satisfaction with the current situation, stating, “I’d much rather be making the decision on the back of people scoring runs rather than no one scoring them. Good problems to have.”
Stay tuned for more updates as Australia prepares for this highly anticipated series.
