David Warner Tips Travis Head As Test Captain For Sri Lanka Tour If Steve Smith Remains Unfit

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Cric News India

January 20, 2025 0 984

Travis Head Might Lead Australia At Sri Lanka

Steve Smith’s elbow injury during the Big Bash League raised doubts about his availability for Australia’s Sri Lanka tour, with David Warner backing Travis Head as the potential skipper.

Australia’s Test captain Steve Smith might miss the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka after sustaining a right elbow injury during the Big Bash League (BBL), as confirmed by Cricket Australia (CA) on Sunday. The injury occurred while fielding for the Sydney Sixers, leaving Smith unable to join the pre-tour camp at the ICC Academy in Dubai.

Smith, who was selected to lead the side after Pat Cummins opted out due to ankle pain and family commitments, was seen wearing an elbow brace. His availability for the tour opener in Galle on January 29 remains uncertain, pending further medical assessments.

In Smith’s potential absence, Travis Head, who has been named vice-captain for the series, is expected to take over the captaincy. Former opener David Warner endorsed Head as the ideal candidate, praising his leadership experience and calm demeanour.

“I don’t think he’d say much. He’ll just make changes when he feels like it, he’ll be fine. He’s done the job for South Australia for a long time as well. He’s got a good head on his shoulders,” Warner told The Australian.

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Warner also expressed concern over Smith’s possible unavailability, emphasizing the impact it could have on Australia’s batting lineup. “Obviously, that’s a big blow if he potentially misses the Sri Lanka tour, but I think he’ll be able to get through it,” he added.

Australia’s tour of Sri Lanka includes two Test matches, starting on January 29 in Galle, followed by the second Test at the same venue on February 6. The series will conclude with two ODIs in Colombo on February 12 and 14.