Smith called up as cover for Australia with Marsh injured for T20 World Cup opener

Australia's cricket squad has announced the inclusion of Steve Smith as a replacement for the injured Mitchell Marsh ahead of their T20 World Cup opener. Smith, who has not participated in a T20 International since February 2024, showcased impressive performance in the recent Big Bash League, scoring 299 runs at an average of 59.80 and an explosive strike rate of 167.97 over six innings with the Sydney Sixers. This move comes as a strategic response to Marsh's injury, which has raised concerns about Australia's batting depth in the tournament. Smith's experience and recent form position him as a crucial asset for the team as they aim for success in the World Cup, marking a significant moment in his return to the T20 format after a notable hiatus. The Australian team is keen to leverage Smith's skills to bolster their chances in the highly competitive tournament.