COLOMBO: Australia will keep a close eye on skipper Mitchell Marsh’s fitness as they prepare to face Zimbabwe in a Group B T20 World Cup match on Friday. Marsh missed Wednesday’s 67-run victory over Ireland due to internal testicular bleeding and is expected to require a significant period of rest before returning to action.
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Steve Smith has been added to the squad as cover, and while Marsh’s absence was not felt in the win against Ireland, the team will hope for his return to strengthen their chances against Zimbabwe. Against Ireland, Australia posted a total of over 180, with contributions from multiple batters, before Nathan Ellis and Adam Zampa shared eight wickets to secure the win.
Against Zimbabwe, Australia will look to big hitters like Travis Head and Glenn Maxwell to post a strong total in the middle overs. Smith, who last played a T20 International in February 2024, has been in red-hot form for Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League, scoring 299 runs in six innings at a strike rate of 167.
Zimbabwe, meanwhile, will aim to capitalize on their recent performance against Oman. The team boasts pace options like Brad Evans, Blessing Muzarabani, and Richard Ngarava, along with veteran Sikandar Raza’s off and leg spin, which could challenge the Australian lineup.
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While Australia are favorites, Zimbabwe’s ability to surprise stronger teams means Marsh’s presence—or absence—could prove pivotal. The clash is expected to be a test of Australia’s depth and form as they push closer to the Super Eights stage.