Warner Supports Head as Test Captain If Smith Unfit for SL Tour
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Synopsis
David Warner has endorsed Travis Head as a potential captain for Australia’s Test team if Steve Smith cannot play in the upcoming Sri Lanka tour due to an elbow injury. The two-match series starts on January 29, with Warner emphasizing the impact of Smith's absence.
Key Takeaways
- Warner backs Head for captaincy.
- Smith's injury could affect Australia.
- First Test against Sri Lanka starts January 29.
- Head serves as vice-captain for the tour.
- Smith's fitness remains uncertain.
New Delhi, Jan 20 (NationPress) Former opener David Warner has expressed his support for Travis Head to take on the role of Australia’s new Test captain if Steve Smith is unable to participate in the forthcoming tour of Sri Lanka due to an elbow injury sustained during the Big Bash League (BBL).
Initially, Smith was appointed as Australia’s Test captain for the Sri Lanka tour after Pat Cummins was ruled out due to left ankle discomfort and the arrival of his second child. However, Cricket Australia (CA) announced on Sunday that Smith has suffered a right elbow injury while fielding for the Sydney Sixers during the BBL last Friday.
Currently, Smith, seen wearing an elbow brace, has yet to join the Australian pre-tour camp at the ICC Academy in Dubai after consulting a specialist. Should he be unfit for the first Test in Galle, Warner anticipates that Head, who has been appointed vice-captain for the Sri Lanka tour, will step up as Australia’s 48th Test skipper.
“I don’t think he’d overthink it. He’ll implement changes as he sees fit and will manage well. He has been leading for South Australia for an extended period. He possesses a sound judgment,” Warner stated as reported by The Australian.
Warner also emphasized that it would be a significant setback for Australia if Smith, who bats at number four, is absent for the entire tour. “Clearly, that would be a major loss if he misses the Sri Lanka tour, but I believe he’ll manage to get through it,” he added.
Australia’s two-match Test series against Sri Lanka is set to commence on January 29 in Galle, with the second Test starting on February 6 at the same location. This will be followed by a pair of ODIs in Colombo on February 12 and 14.
