Will Steve Smith play tonight for AUS vs OMN in T20 World Cup 2026?
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Steve Smith was added late into the Australia’s squad for T20 World Cup 2026 as a replacement of injured Josh Hazlewood.
Australia have had a dreadful campaign in the T20 World Cup 2026. In a group, which featured, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, Ireland and Oman, the Mitchell Marsh-led side were expected to qualify for the Super 8 stage with ease. However, in a drastic turn of events, they looked below par, losing to Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, which threw them out of the tournament.
After a shocking defeat against Zimbabwe, Australia had a do-or-die situation against Sri Lanka. They started well with the bat and posted over 180 runs, but couldn’t defend as Pathum Nissanka’s unbeaten century took the game away from them.
Australia‘s campaign was also marred by a lot of injuries with Pat Cummins, Josh Hazelwood missing the entire tournament, and Mitchell Marsh missing first two games. As a result, Steve Smith was called to Sri Lanka as a cover for Marsh, but was officially added to the squad as Hazlewood’s replacement ahead of Sri Lanka clash.
Steve Smith likely to play in the AUS vs OMN match in T20 World Cup 2026
Smith was expected to play in AUS vs SL clash, however, he wasn’t considered, and now with them already being out of the tournament, Australia might look to make a few changes in their XI for their last clash.
Australian middle-order batters have struggled to get going in the tournament. Their struggle against spinners has been pretty evident and to counter that, Smith will be their best bet. There are chances that he might replace all-rounder Cameron Green, who has struggled to make a mark in the previous two games and has faced a lot of criticism.
Smith was in a red-hot form in the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26, where he played for Sydney Sixers. He slammed 299 runs in six innings at an average of 59.80 and a strike rate of 167.97, to go with one hundred as well.
Who replaced Josh Hazlewood in Australia’s squad in the T20 World Cup 2026?
Steve Smith replaced Josh Hazlewood in Australia’s squad.
When will the AUS vs OMN match take place?
The AUS vs OMN match will take place on February 20.
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Ankitjit Singh is a dedicated sports journalist whose childhood dream was to play cricket—now, he serves the game through his work. With over three years of experience in reporting, writing, and editing, he brings deep insight to his coverage. A journalism graduate from Delhi University, Ankitjit’s passion for cricket took root during his college days and continues to drive his career.