Steve Smith missed out on the first two ODI matches against England. After receiving a blow to the head during a net session, Smith was rested by the team management. However even after passing two concussion tests, the star Aussie batsman so far still had to sit out in the series. 

Yesterday before Smith’s net session, head coach Justin Langer seemed positive about Smith returning to the squad for the deciding ODI. However, after Smith had a hit in the net session yesterday, the to the Aussie coach asserted that he looked ‘rusty’. Langer is now not confident about Smith playing the final ODI that will be contested today (16 September). 

Langer Not Confident Of Steve Smith Playing Final ODI

“In terms of Smithy, he had a hit today. He still looks a bit rusty, to be honest. We’ll give him until the last moment to play but I’m not as confident now as I was 24 hours ago. “If he doesn’t come up again, we’ll keep his like all of our player’s health in mind”, Speaking to SEN Breakfast, Langer said. 

Meanwhile so far in the series, Marcus Stoinis has batted at number 3 for Australia in absence of Smith. Surprisingly the star Aussie batsman missed the first two games as a precaution despite passing multiple concussion tests. The batting line-up of Australia has been under constant scrutiny throughout their tour of England.

Inclusion of Steve Smith in the side will inevitably make their batting for formidable in the conclusive clash against England. Moreover, had Australia won the second ODI and with it the series, there was a likelihood of the reserves getting some game time in the last match but that appears doubtful with the series on the line now.

The three-match ODI series is now tied at 1-1 with the final match to be played at Old Trafford on September 16. Australia has got the opportunity to defeat England in an ODI series which hasn’t happened since 2017.

Also Read: England vs Australia 2020: 3rd ODI, Fantasy Tips, Predicted XI And Match Prediction