UPDATE: Australia’s selection chair George Bailey has confirmed that Steve Smith will lead the team in the upcoming Ashes series until Pat Cummins recovers from his injury. This decision comes as concerns swirl around the fitness of allrounder Cameron Green, who was recently sidelined from the ODI squad against India due to a troubling “side soreness.”
In a critical move, Green has been replaced by Marnus Labuschagne for the ODI series. Bailey reassured fans that recent scans showed no serious damage, and the medical team has opted for a conservative approach, allowing Green to play in the next rounds of the Sheffield Shield to ensure he is primed for the Ashes. “Avoiding travel to Adelaide is the best path forward for Green,” Bailey stated, emphasizing that the focus is on preparing for the Test matches.
Smith has returned from New York and was already seen practicing at Cricket NSW just a day after landing. He will participate in the next two Sheffield Shield rounds in Brisbane and Sydney, solidifying his role as captain in Cummins’ absence. “If Pat doesn’t play, Smudge will captain. That’s business as usual,” Bailey confirmed, noting that Cummins will still be involved with the team while recovering.
The selectors are also monitoring Beau Webster, who is being advised to take the necessary time to recover from a sprained ankle, ensuring he is fully fit for the Ashes. Bailey acknowledged the importance of Webster’s allrounder capabilities, especially given the current injury concerns surrounding Cummins and Green. “We want to avoid making injuries worse,” he added.
The selection panel is closely observing players during the ongoing Sheffield Shield matches, with decisions on the final squad for the first Test in Perth expected after round three. Bailey stated, “I’d much rather make decisions based on players scoring runs than the alternative.”
As Labuschagne concludes his game in Adelaide, he will fly to Perth as cover for the opening ODI against India on Sunday. Alex Carey will stay in Adelaide but return for the second ODI on Thursday, while Josh Philippe is set to take the gloves in Perth. Josh Inglis, recovering from a calf injury, is also in the mix.
This developing story is crucial for Australian cricket fans as the Ashes series looms ever closer. Stay tuned for updates as the situation unfolds and the final squad is determined!
