Australia’s preparation for the crucial pink-ball Test against India took an unexpected turn on Tuesday. Star batter Steve Smith left the nets after taking a hit to his thumb. While facing throwdowns, Smith appeared visibly uncomfortable. He immediately removed his gloves and inspected the injury before stepping away.
However, Smith received immediate medical attention. He soon returned to practice, much to the relief of the Australian camp. The session also saw Marnus Labuschagne struck by a short ball, but the gritty batter brushed it off and resumed training.
Smith and Labuschange Struggle with Form
Both Smith and Labuschagne have come under fire for their recent performances. Smith followed a golden duck in the first Test with a lacklustre 17. On the other Labuschagne’s twin failures have raised questions about his form.
Nonetheless, both Smith and Labuschagne would be hoping to make a comeback in the Pink Ball Test against India. Smith, the second-highest run-scorer in pink-ball Tests, boasts 760 runs at an average of 40 from 11 matches. Labuschagne, with 894 runs from just eight games at an impressive average of 63.85, leads the format’s run charts. Both will be eager to bounce back and silence their critics under the Adelaide lights.
Australia Without Hazlewood in Second Test
Australia’s injury woes extend beyond the batting department. Their star pacer Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the Second Test against India with a side strain. He was Australia’s hero when they last faced India in a Pink Ball Test. Hazlewood led the Aussie pacers in that game and clinched a 5-wicket haul as India were all out for 36.
However, Australia have announced Scott Boland as a replacement for Josh Hazlewood. Boland has played 2 Tests against India, including the World Test Championship Final in 2023. He took 5 wickets in that game as Australia went on to win the title.
On the other hand, Mitchell Marsh has declared himself fit and ready to play. There were injury concerns around him as well. Beau Webster is another addition to the Australian squad.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, and Instagram
