Smith Faces Elbow Injury Before Sri Lanka Tour; Kuhnemann Recovers from Thumb Surgery
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Synopsis
Steve Smith is dealing with an elbow injury ahead of the Test tour to Sri Lanka, but he is likely to attend the pre-tour camp in Dubai. Matthew Kuhnemann is recovering from thumb surgery, while Pat Cummins' ankle issue is being monitored.
Key Takeaways
- Steve Smith is injured but expected to join the squad.
- Matthew Kuhnemann is recovering from thumb surgery.
- Pat Cummins is under observation for ankle soreness.
- The Test series against Sri Lanka starts on January 29.
- Australia will play two ODIs following the Test matches.
New Delhi, Jan 19 (NationPress) Steve Smith, the captain of Australia for the upcoming Test series in Sri Lanka, is currently facing an elbow injury issue but is anticipated to participate in the pre-tour camp in Dubai later this week, as reported by Cricket Australia (CA) on Sunday.
According to CA, left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann is in recovery after undergoing surgery for a fractured thumb that he sustained while competing in the Big Bash League (BBL). Pat Cummins, the regular captain, is also under observation for left ankle soreness following advice from a specialist.
Smith's right elbow injury occurred while he was throwing during a match for the Sydney Sixers in the BBL on Friday, which was ultimately rained out against Sydney Thunder.
On Sunday, he was seen wearing an elbow brace on his right arm, where he had previously undergone surgery in 2019. CA has stated that despite his injury, Smith is making preparations to join the Test squad in Dubai later this week following further evaluations from specialists, with updates to be provided as they become available.
As for Kuhnemann, CA mentioned that he will stay in Australia until the surgical site on his fractured thumb has healed sufficiently. “He is expected to resume bowling this week with the intention of joining the squad in Sri Lanka, provided he continues to recover well,” CA noted.
Kuhnemann had participated in three Tests on the tour of India earlier in 2023, where he notably achieved a five-wicket haul. He had been out of the team until his impressive performance, taking 18 wickets in six Sheffield Shield matches for his new team, Tasmania, which earned him a spot back in the Australian Test squad.
The two-match Test series between Australia and Sri Lanka is set to commence on January 29 in Galle, with the second match starting on February 6 at the same location. This will be followed by two One Day Internationals (ODIs) in Colombo on February 12 and 14.
In the meantime, CA has indicated that Cummins, who has been designated as Australia’s captain for the Champions Trophy, is recovering from aggravated left ankle soreness, a condition that has worsened due to increased workloads during the Test summer, where he led the team to a 3-1 series victory over India.
Cummins, who opted out of the Tests in Sri Lanka to welcome his second child, is expected to seek specialized rehabilitation advice this week and will likely need time for physical recovery and preparation. “The NSP will continue to oversee Cummins’ recovery as we approach the Champion’s Trophy,” concluded CA.
