Australian batsman Steve Smith has joined Australia’s squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 as a replacement for fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, who is injured. Team officials confirmed the news on Monday. Hazlewood cannot play in the tournament because of a calf injury. The selectors made quick decision to add Smith, making sure Australia has a complete and strong team for its upcoming matches. This change keeps the squad ready and gives the team extra options for the upcoming matches.
The 36‑year‑old Steve Smith had already come to Sri Lanka earlier to help the team in case captain Mitchell Marsh or all‑rounder Marcus Stoinis could not play due to fitness concerns. Smith practiced with the team in Kandy on Sunday and is now ready to play if the coaches decide to include him in the important match. His presence adds experience and strength to the squad as Australia prepares for the upcoming matches in this worldcup.
The decision to add Smith in T20 team was approved by the ICC Event Technical Committee, which is required by tournament rules before any player can be officially added to a squad during the World Cup. This change comes just before Australia’s important match against Sri Lankan team in Kandy.
Smith has not played a T20 International match for Australia since February 2024, but he has been in strong form in national tournamet, especially in the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025‑26 season, where he was one of the top performers. His batting experience and skill could make Australia’s team stronger as they try to recover from a surprising loss to Zimbabwe earlier in the tournament.
The selectors had waited before selecting a replacement for Hazlewood, hoping he might get fit in time. But with time running out and Hazlewood still not fully recovered, they decided to bring in Steve Smith. This step was done by following ICC rules, which say any squad changes must be submitted at least one day before a match.
Australia’s T20 World Cup team has faced some challenges because of injuries. Captain Mitchell Marsh missed the opening matches due to a training injury but has now returned to practice, while Marcus Stoinis has also been dealing with minor knocks. Adding Steve Smith not only replaces Hazlewood in the squad but also gives Australia extra options and experience as they aim to secure a strong position in the tournament.
Adding Steve Smith brings important experience to a team that already has players like Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Cameron Green, Glenn Maxwell, and others. Even if Smith does not play immediately, having him in the squad gives Australia more flexibility and a skilled batsman ready for high-pressure situations.
As the team gets ready for its next matches, fans and analysts are waiting to see how Smith’s return affects Australia’s performance. His experience in international cricket and strong recent performance in national tournament give hope that he can play an important role and make big impact in the upcoming matches in this World Cup.