COLOMBO: Australia’s T20 World Cup campaign got off to a flying start when Australian captain Mitchell Marsh was ruled out of the first match against Ireland due to internal testicular bleeding due to a groin injury.
Steven Smith was called in as cover before the game.
Marsh held his pre-match press conference as scheduled on Tuesday.
“(Marsh) continues to experience pain and discomfort, which limits his mobility,” Cricket Australia said in a statement.
“Scans have confirmed internal testicular bleeding and he will require rest and rehabilitation. His return to play will be guided by resolution of symptoms and medical advice. Standby player Steven Smith will travel to Sri Lanka to acclimatise and prepare, if necessary.”
With Marsh sidelined, Australia will effectively pick 12 players as their opener.
Josh Hazlewood is yet to officially make the squad, while Tim David has been ruled out of Friday’s match against Zimbabwe after suffering a hamstring injury that ended his PBL season.
Sean Abbott also travels as a reserve but is not yet officially part of the squad.
Smith, who last played a T20I in February 2024, was recalled for the World Cup following a strong Big Bash League campaign with the Sydney Sixers, scoring 299 runs in six innings at an average of 59.80 and a strike rate of 167.97.
Australia’s preparations for the tournament have been hampered by injuries, with Hazlewood and Pat Cummins both left out of the starting line-up.