Australia’s captain Steven Smith will return home due to a shoulder injury which he suffered during the fifth ODI. Smith will not be a part of the Australian team in the three-match T20 series, and David Warner will lead the side in his absence. Smith has been unable to bat or throw without discomfort since he landed awkwardly on his shoulder while fielding in the fifth ODI.
Smith has been unable to recover from the injury and will travel back home to recover before the start of the Ashes in November. Smith failed to play any meaningful innings in the One Day series and couldn’t help his team to show any resistance in the series. The Indian team completely dominated the Aussies.
Australian team doctor said:
“Smith landed awkwardly on his right shoulder whilst diving in the field during the fifth ODI against India last Sunday, following the match he complained of shoulder soreness, which has not settled and is restricting his ability to bat and throw. Subsequently, he has had an MRI scan which has excluded serious injury, but we believe the best course of action is for him to not continue to aggravate his shoulder and allow it to recover. He will have further investigation upon his return to Australia but we remain confident he will be available for the start of the Sheffield Shield season.”
Marcus Stoinis who was not picked for the T20 squad has been recalled for the shortest format after Steven Smith’s decision to fly back home. Stoinis impressed with his all-round performance in the One Day series.
The first T20 match will be played on Saturday in Ranchi. India’s will be strengthened with the return of their opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan who was on a break to be with his ailing wife. Dhawan has been in a formidable form since his return to the team in the Champions Trophy.