Injury concerns loom over Australia test squad ahead of Sri Lanka tour.

Stand-in Test captain Steven Smith has given Australia a fresh injury concern after sustaining an elbow injury during the Big Bash League (BBL). Smith, who has a history of elbow issues and underwent surgery on his right arm in 2019, picked up the injury while fielding for the Sydney Sixers in their rain-hit match against the Sydney Thunder.

The injury has delayed Smith’s departure for the team’s training camp in Dubai, though Cricket Australia remains hopeful he can join the squad later this week. Smith is set to lead Australia in the two Tests in Galle, with regular captain Pat Cummins on paternity leave. If Smith is unavailable, Travis Head is likely to take on the captaincy for the first time in Test cricket.

Another concern for Australia is left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann, who recently underwent surgery for a fractured right thumb sustained during a BBL match against Hobart Hurricanes. The injury, while not to his bowling hand, poses challenges for his batting and fielding.

Kuhnemann, who took a memorable 5 for 16 against India in Indore during the 2023 tour, had been expected to play a key role in Australia’s spin attack for the Sri Lanka series. Cricket Australia stated that he would resume bowling this week and could join the squad if his recovery progresses well.

Should Kuhnemann be unavailable, allrounder Cooper Connolly may debut despite limited first-class experience. Connolly, who bowls left-arm spin, expressed excitement about the potential opportunity. “If the chance arises, I’ll give it my all and learn from playing in subcontinent conditions,” Connolly said.

Meanwhile, Cummins is dealing with “increased left ankle soreness” following a heavy workload during the Test series against India, where he bowled the most overs of any bowler. His participation in the Champions Trophy remains uncertain as he undergoes specialist rehabilitation.

Australia’s national selectors will continue to monitor the fitness of both Smith and Cummins while finalizing preparations for the Sri Lanka series and the Champions Trophy.