Australia vs Sri Lanka: Steve Smith Returns as Captain in Bold Move for Sri Lanka Tour
Steve Smith has been named Australia's captain for the Sri Lanka Test series, replacing Pat Cummins, who is on paternity leave and recovering from an ankle issue. Smith, who has previously led Australia in 38 Tests with 21 wins, will be supported by deputy Travis Head. The 16-member squad includes stars like Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon, with Nathan McSweeney returning.
After successfully registering their place in the WTC Finals 2025 with an impressive 63.73% of possible points, Australia has announced its squad for the Sri Lanka tour, with Steve Smith stepping in as captain. The decision comes as Pat Cummins takes paternity leave and continues managing a persistent ankle issue. Cricket Australia stated that Cummins’s condition had been closely monitored throughout the summer.
The 16-member squad features key players like Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Sean Abbott in the pace department, while Nathan Lyon will lead the spin attack, supported by Todd Murphy and Matt Kuhnemann. Notably, Nathan McSweeney, despite being dropped during the India series, has earned a spot in the squad. Travis Head has been named as Smith’s deputy.
Smith, a seasoned leader, has captained Australia in 38 Tests, winning 21, losing 10, and drawing 6, with a remarkable batting average of 66.67 during his tenure. His leadership experience includes stepping in during the 2021 Ashes and the 2023 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
This series will serve as Australia’s final preparation for the ICC World Test Championship final against South Africa in June while missing key players like Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Marsh due to injuries.
Australia’s squad for Sri Lanka series:
Steve Smith (C), Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Nathan McSweeney, Beau Webster, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Cooper Connolly, Todd Murphy, Matt Kuhneman, Sean Abbott, and Scott Boland.
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