Steve Smith Added to Australia's T20 World Cup Squad vs Sri Lanka

Australia have pulled the trigger on adding Steve Smith to their T20 World Cup squad hours before their crunch match with Sri Lanka

Australia has added veteran batter Steve Smith to their T20 World Cup roster just hours before a pivotal match against Sri Lanka, a game that could determine their fate in the tournament. The move comes as the Australians glance to bolster their batting lineup after a shocking loss to Zimbabwe.

Smith will take the place of Josh Hazlewood in the squad, with the fast bowler still recovering from an Achilles injury. The addition was officially confirmed ahead of Tuesday’s must-win encounter in Kandy.

The right-handed Smith had been training with the squad in Kandy after arriving in Sri Lanka as cover for captain Mitch Marsh, who missed the first two matches due to a testicular injury. Marsh is now expected to return to the top of the order alongside Travis Head.

Marsh demonstrated his fitness on Sunday, participating fully in running and fielding drills and as well spent approximately 45 minutes batting in the nets, launching several powerful shots. The Australian captain’s return, or Smith’s availability, will likely see Josh Inglis return to his regular No. 3 position.

According to ICC tournament regulations, any squad changes require approval from the Event Technical Committee before a match. “ICC regulations stipulate any squad change must be submitted and activated on the day prior to a match,” selector Tony Dodemaide said. “With Steve here, along with some uncertainty around Mitch and Marcus Stoinis, it made sense he is activated and available for selection in time for the match, if required.”

Allrounder Marcus Stoinis was declared fit to play after taking a blow to his left hand in the previous match against Zimbabwe, though he briefly paused his net session for additional strapping. Stoinis was a standout performer with the ball in that match, taking the opening wicket before being forced to leave the field.

Matthew Renshaw appears to have secured his spot in the side after top-scoring against Zimbabwe with 65 runs off 44 balls, and also contributing a valuable 37 in the win over Ireland.

Even if Smith doesn’t feature in the playing XI immediately, his inclusion signals his importance to Australia’s future T20 plans, potentially with an eye toward the 2028 Olympics. Smith recently enjoyed a stellar Sizeable Bash campaign, scoring 299 runs at a strike rate of almost 170 in six matches for the Sydney Sixers, including his fourth BBL century in the last four seasons.

Australia currently sits third in Group B after the upset loss to Zimbabwe, meaning wins in their remaining group matches are crucial for progression to the Super Eight stage. They will play Oman on Saturday, and will know exactly what net run rate they necessitate to achieve should they finish level on points with Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe.

2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup

Australia squad: Mitch Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa. Travelling reserve: Sean Abbott