Smith Feared Significant Elbow Injury After Outfield Throw

After throwing in the outfield, Steven Smith was concerned that he would have a significant elbow injury. Recently, one of Australia's most notable cricketers, Steven Smith, was involved in a disturbing incident during the Big Bash League (BBL).

This incident had the potential to jeopardize his participation in the next Test series against Sri Lanka. While throwing in the outfield, the great batter endured a severe ache in his elbow, which caused him to be concerned about the possibility of a recurrence of ligament damage he had sustained in the past.

Smith is scheduled to lead the squad in the two-match Test series in Galle, so this potential setback may have dealt Australia a big blow. However, regular captain Pat Cummins will be missing due to paternity leave, so Smith’s job will become even more important.

A Sore Reminder of the Surgery That Took Place in 2019

The scare that Smith experienced occurred on the same elbow that had undergone ligament surgery in 2019, which required a significant amount of rehabilitation. Follow bpexch app for amazing cricket news. 

As he detailed the anguish he felt after taking a catch off David Warner and sending the ball back to the wicketkeeper, it was understandable that memories of that injury came flooding back to him.

“Straight away, I thought, ‘Oh jeez, that hurt,’” said Smith in response. "I was a little bit scared for a while because it was a feeling that was like the one I experienced when I ruptured my ligament in the year 2019." 

On the other hand, scans revealed that Smith’s ligament had not been damaged. "Although I have some muscle damage and a minor problem with the ligament that is attached to the bone, it is not anything that is considered to be very dangerous."

Clearance from a Specialist and Recovery Strategies

Following his consultation with a doctor, Smith was relieved to learn that the damage was not as bad as he had initially anticipated it would be. He was given permission to participate in the training camp Australia held in Dubai, where he landed earlier this week.

It is expected that Smith will resume his batting duties over the next few days, albeit with some modifications to his throwing style.

Smith stated that the injury was caused by a previous blow he received on his right shoulder from Jhye Richardson, which occurred during an earlier encounter in the BBL. 

He presumably altered his throwing motion due to the contact, which may have contributed to the elbow pain he experienced. The impact also left him with a substantial bruise.

Adjustments for the Sri Lanka Series

Even though Smith’s elbow has not entirely recovered, his participation in the upcoming test series is anticipated not to be significantly impacted. 

Given his position as a tight catcher, he will not need to rely much on long throws from the outfield, which is especially important in a series that is anticipated to be dominated by spin bowling. “In terms of batting, I’m pretty comfortable. I’ll be able to play with some tape,” Smith stated in his interview.

The fact that Smith only needs one more run to surpass 10,000 Test runs means he will enter the series on the verge of achieving a significant milestone. 

This accomplishment would firmly establish him as one of the most accomplished batters in the history of cricket.

Dubai is the Location of the Training Camp

The Australian team is now training at Dubai’s International Cricket Council Academy. They are playing on wickets specially built to simulate the conditions that they are likely to face in Sri Lanka. 

Smith pointed out that the training surfaces have a substantial amount of spin and bounce, allowing the squad to prepare for the challenging tour.

“I was watching a bit, and there was a lot of variation in the spin and some bounce,” Smith explained to reporters. "This is why we are in Dubai: to recreate these conditions and assist the players in developing strategies that will be successful in the game. This week will be an excellent learning opportunity and adequately prepare us for the tour."

Updates on the Team and Concerns Regarding Injuries

Following the addition of Beau Webster, Mitchell Starc, and Smith, the Australian team has reached its full complement of players. 

On the other hand, left-arm spinner Matt Kuhnemann is still unable to play after undergoing surgery to treat a complicated fracture-dislocation in his right thumb, which he incurred during the BBL. There will be an update on his rehabilitation shortly.

Considering the Future

Smith is still hopeful about his ability to make a significant contribution during the Sri Lanka series, despite the recent fright that he may have experienced. 

If Australia successfully prepares for the spin-heavy challenges that are waiting for them in Galle, his leadership, experience, and batting skills will be essential.

Although he continues to manage the hurdles of a rigorous cricket career while preserving his reputation as a cornerstone of the Australian squad, Smith’s journey is a testament to the qualities of perseverance and adaptation.

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