Melbourne, February 16, 2026 – Veteran batter Steve Smith has been added to Australia’s squad for the T20 World Cup 2026, filling the final spot left vacant by injured paceman Josh Hazlewood.
Smith was sent to Sri Lanka as cover for opener Mitchell Marsh, who suffered a testicular injury during training in Colombo. Marsh missed Australia’s opening two matches as a result.
Selector Tony Dodemaide explained that fitness concerns for both Marsh and all-rounder Marcus Stoinis prompted Smith’s inclusion. “With Steve here, along with uncertainty around Mitchell and Marcus, it made sense to activate him for selection,” he said. Squad changes must be submitted at least one day before a match, according to tournament regulations.
Smith had initially failed to make the World Cup squad despite strong performances in Australia’s Big Bash League leading up to the tournament. His addition brings experience and depth to Australia’s T20 line-up as the team navigates injuries and key player availability.
Hazlewood was ruled out of the competition due to Achilles and hamstring injuries, leaving selectors with limited time to finalize the squad. Smith’s inclusion ensures that Australia maintains balance in both batting and bowling options during the T20 World Cup.
The Australian team is preparing for upcoming matches in Sri Lanka, aiming to remain competitive in the early stages of the tournament. With Smith now available, the squad has more flexibility to rotate players and manage workloads while targeting a strong finish in the global event.
Fans and cricket analysts have welcomed Smith’s late inclusion, noting that his experience in pressure situations could prove crucial in the knockout rounds of the T20 World Cup 2026.
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Australia will face off against group-stage opponents in the coming days, and selectors will monitor player fitness closely to optimize the team for the most challenging fixtures.
