Drama unfolds in the 2026 T20 World Cup as Australia integrates Steve Smith into their Group B squad for the blockbuster against Sri Lanka at Candy’s Pallekele Stadium, starting 7 PM Monday. This inclusion replaces paceman Josh Hazlewood.
Originally cover for injured captain Mitchell Marsh—who missed early matches after nets trouble—Smith hit the ground running with team training on Sunday. He’s now eligible for the playing XI, per selector Tony Dodemaide.
‘ICC rules demand pre-match notifications, and with question marks over Marsh and Stoinis, Steve’s preparedness is key,’ Dodemaide noted. The timing couldn’t be better for a team under pressure.
A Marsh comeback likely sidelines Smith initially, but any issues elevate the ex-captain’s chances. It’s his T20I return post-February 2024, backed by stellar BBL performances that hinted at this moment. Smith’s 1,094 runs from 67 T20Is include five fifties.
The stakes are sky-high: triumph over Sri Lanka sustains Australia’s title defense; failure invites elimination. Smith’s savvy could be the game-changer in this survival clash.