Why is Steve Smith Not Playing Today Against Afghanistan?
Steve Smith (AP Photo)
Steve Smith has been sidelined from the playing XI in their ICC Men's ODI World Cup 2023 match against Afghanistan due to a bout of vertigo. All-rounder Mitchell Marsh has been drafted into the team as his replacement. Additionally, in a strategic change, the five-time ODI World Cup champions have swapped Cameron Green with Glenn Maxwell in the starting lineup for the match.
Here's what Pat Cummins said:
"Not really too much. We would have batted first but we're fine with bowling first.Two changes. Steve struggled today and he misses out today. Cam Green also sits out. Maxwell and Marsh come into the side. Really happy with how we have gone. Five wins in a row. Everyone has contributed. We have used 14 players so far and all have to contributed.It's a bit cooler than it was a month ago. We have a lot of bowling options so no worries in that department."
Smith's performance in the ongoing World Cup has been less than stellar, with only 205 runs to his name in seven innings, averaging just 29.29 and boasting a relatively low strike rate of 86.13. In his seven appearances, he has managed to secure just one half-century and has struggled to find his rhythm with the bat throughout the tournament.
Moreover, Smith's track record at the Wankhede Stadium, the venue for a few of the World Cup matches, is far from impressive. He has participated in only two ODIs at this venue and could muster just 22 runs in those outings. As a result, questions arise about his effectiveness at this specific ground.
The key issue now is whether the Australian team management will opt for a different batting combination in Smith's absence and potentially continue to leave him out of the playing XI in their next game.
Smith's form and performance have been under scrutiny, and the team's decision regarding his inclusion or exclusion will undoubtedly be influenced by the need for a balanced and effective batting lineup. It remains to be seen how the Australian team strategizes and manages their lineup to optimize their chances in the World Cup.
 "Muskaan Bhatt")
