India vs Australia: Steve Smith bats in the nets, expected to be fit for first Test
Xtra Time Web Desk: Ace Australian batsman on Wednesday batted at the nets at Adelaide Oval, putting an end to all the speculations going around about his availability for the first test against India. Smith’s fitness became a cause of concern after he missed a training session on Tuesday due to a stiff back. Smith was seen walking out of the ground after doing a few stretching exercises and running drills. He skipped the routine football session and headed straight to the dressing room in some discomfort. Australia Test captain Tim Paine, however during his pre match conference said it was not a serious niggle and a day’s rest came as a “blessing in disguise” for the star.
Australia have already been hit by multiple injuries, with David Warner (groin) and Will Pucovski (concussion) ruled out of the opening Test. Promising all-rounder Cameron Green, who will make his Test debut on Thursday, suffered a mild concussion after being hit on the head by a shot from Jasprit Bumrah in the pink ball warm-up match between India and Australia A in Sydney.
Surprisingly though the hosts are yet to announce the playing XI. Captain Tim Paine indicated they are going to decide on the final XI only after looking at the wicket on Thursday. It is expected out of form Joe Burns will be given another opportunity. He will open the batting with Marcus Harris.
Australia (likely XI) : Joe Burns, Marcus Harris/Mathew Wade, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green , Nathan Lyon, Tim Paine, Josh Hazzlewood, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins
