If Pat Cummins remains unavailable for Champions Trophy, Steve Smith ready to captain Australia
With Pat Cummins’ participation in the ICC Champions Trophy in doubt due to an ankle injury, Steve Smith has expressed his readiness to captain the Australian team. Coach Andrew McDonald previously mentioned Smith and Travis Head as potential captaincy candidates. Cummins, who also missed the Sri Lanka Test series for the birth of his second child, has not yet resumed training.
Smith stated he hasn’t focused extensively on the captaincy, prioritizing the ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka. However, he enjoys captaining, especially in subcontinent conditions, noting his understanding of the game’s nuances.
McDonald confirmed Cummins is “heavily unlikely” for the Champions Trophy because he hasn’t been able to resume any type of bowling. Josh Hazlewood is also battling to be fit. If Cummins is unable to play, Sean Abbott is likely to return to the ODI squad, and Spencer Johnson may also be included.
The Champions Trophy begins on February 19. Smith has prior captaincy experience, leading Australia in two Tests during their 2022-23 tour of India, where he remains undefeated, winning one match and drawing another.