Steve Smith opens up about missing white-ball tour of Pakistan

By Muhammad JuniadPublished On 04 Jan 2023

Star Australia batter Steve Smith has expressed disappointment after missing out limited-overs tour of Pakistan.

The three-match ODI and a T20I are set to commence from March 29 at the Gaddafi Stadium.

The right-hander, who was part of the Australia squad for the white-ball tour, experienced some discomfort in his left elbow during the recently concluded three-match Test series, which the visitors won 1-0.

In a statement, Cricket Australia confirmed that Smith has suffered a minor injury, and decided to rest the 2015 World Cup winner. “With a full schedule of international cricket over the coming 18 months, it was felt prudent to prioritise recovery and treatment at this time.”

Meanwhile, Smith said that he made the decision after chatting with the medical staff. “It’s disappointing to miss these matches against Pakistan but after chatting with the medical staff I can see the need to take a break at this time.

“I do not regard this as a major issue but by staying on top of things now, we can ensure that it doesn’t become something more significant further down the line.”

The 32-year-old will be replaced by Queensland leg-spinner Mitchell Swepson in the squad to contest three One-Day Internationals (29 and 31 March and 2 April) and a T20 International (5 April), with all matches taking place in Lahore.

Australia squad: Aaron Finch (c), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Jason Behrendorff, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Ben McDermott, Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Swepson, Adam Zampa.