Share

Smith rested, Warner to lead Aussies

Colombo - Australia's Steve Smith was on Wednesday given a break to focus on the upcoming South Africa tour as his deputy David Warner will lead the side in the remainder of the Sri Lanka tour.

Smith, whose team suffered an 82-run loss in the second one-day international with the series now tied at 1-1, was set to return home before the remaining three ODIs and two Twenty20s.

"I hate missing cricket, but in the long run it will do me a world of good," Smith was quoted as saying by Cricket Australia on Twitter.

"The schedule is very busy. I still want to take on the role in all three formats and do it to the best of my ability," he added.

Cricket Australia's national selector Rod Marsh said in a statement: "Steve has a large amount of cricket coming up in the next 12 months and we wanted to find a time for him to freshen up and these last five matches provide a good opportunity to do so.

"Regardless of the results of the first two matches our plan was always for Steve to take a break and refresh ahead of the ODI Series against South Africa next month.

"This is a great leadership opportunity for David, he has really embraced his role as vice-captain and we are confident he will do a great job in Steve's place."

Australia's tour of South Africa begins on September 27 with an ODI against Ireland in Benoni after which they play five ODIs against the Proteas.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE