1st Test: Steve Smith to play, debut for Cameron Green, confirms Tim Paine

Australian test captain Tim Paine confirmed Steve Smith will play the first D/N test against India at Adelaide Oval. Image: Xtra Time

Xtra Time Web Desk: Australian test captain Tim Paine on Wednesday confirmed star batsman Steve Smith will play in the first test starting from Thursday at the Adelaide Oval. Smith walked off from the training after fielding for 10 minutes as he complained of a sore back. But he is expected to take the field against India, said Paine. According to Paine, it was just a precautionary move.  

“His (Smith’s) preparation has been very good. He has batted for the last week since we’ve been in Adelaide. So for him to have a day off might actually be a blessing in disguise,” Paine said.

“He has had a stiff back before. Yesterday was more precautionary. He’s in to train today, so we’ll see how he goes. But come tomorrow, whether he’s fit and sore in the back, or stiff in the back, I think he normally gets up, gets through it and finds a way to score runs like he always does,” said Paine during a virtual press conference ahead of the first test.

The Australian captain also confirmed that rookie all rounder Cameron Green will make his test debut. The Western Australia cricketer passed the concussion test after being hit on the head awkwardly by Jasprit Bumrah during the three day practice match at SCG last week. As far as the opening combinations is concerned, Paine preferred not to disclose it. Moving away from the routine, Australia are not going to name their playing XI in advance but only during the coin toss on Thursday, confirmed Tim Paine. The Australia skipper though backed out-of-form Joe Burns to retain his place.