Steve Smith Dropped; Australia's Probable XI For 1st T20I vs New Zealand

image-lsu3a043Steve Smith [X.com]

In a significant development, Australia's T20I captain Mitchell Marsh has confirmed the top order for the first T20I against New Zealand. 

Ahead of the first game of the three-match series, Marsh revealed that Travis Head will open the batting with David Warner, with the skipper himself coming in at number three. 

This means veteran batter Steve Smith won't likely feature in the playing XI, as he brings a little value to the table as a middle-order batter. A legend in Tests, Smith has somehow failed to adhere to the demands of the shortest format at the international level. 

On the contrary, keeper-batter Josh Inglis has grabbed his limited opportunities with both hands and will likely bat at number four in this high-voltage clash. He will be followed by veteran all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, who is expected to play a key role in this encounter. 

The dynamic duo of Tim David and Matthew Wade will do the finishing duties, with Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood likely to spearhead the bowling attack alongside ace spinner Adam Zampa. 


Australia's probable XI for 1st T20I vs New Zealand

Travis Head, David Warner, Mitchell Marsh (C), Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, Tim David, Matthew Wade, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood