Steven Smith called in as cover for Nathan Hauritz
New South Wales legspinner Steven Smith has been included to the Australian squad as injury cover for Nathan Hauritz whose groin injury puts him in doubt for Boxing Day
Cricinfo staff
24-Dec-2009
Australia have included New South Wales legspinner Steven Smith to the squad for the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan in Melbourne. The eleventh-hour inclusion was necessitated after the team opted for a cover for Nathan Hauritz, who is battling injury.
Alex Kontouris, the physiotherapist of the Australia team said, "Nathan has had a long-standing groin injury that has recently been causing more of a problem for him while bowling. While the injury has been manageable he has reported an increase in discomfort after completing today's training session. Nathan will train tomorrow morning and a decision will be made on his availability for the Test upon further assessment in the lead up to the match."
Smith, 20, has featured in nine first-class matches, making a bigger impression as a batsman than with the ball. He will join the squad in Melbourne and return to the domestic circuit, in case his services are not required for the match.