Skipper Smith revealed about this news right after the second ODI against Sri Lanka which Australia lost by 82 runs.
“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.”
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 in Sri Lanka will end on 9 September with a T20 match; after that the South Africa tour will begin on 27 September with an ODI against Ireland in Benoni. Australia then will be playing five ODIs against South Africa.
Cricfrenzy
