Australia's T20 World Cup fate hangs in the balance as they prepare for a crucial match against Sri Lanka. With a win required to avoid elimination, the team faces a difficult decision regarding the inclusion of Steve Smith. Smith, a superstar batter, has been added to the squad as cover for Mitchell Marsh, who suffered a testicular injury. Despite mounting pressure, there is no certainty that Smith will be named to play, as Marsh is likely to return and open, while all-rounder Stoinis has declared his injured left hand is 'pretty good'. Smith has not played a T20I for Australia since February 2024, but has been mighty in the Big Bash League the last few summers. The Aussies are on the brink of World Cup elimination should they lose tonight, then requiring Zimbabwe to lose both remaining matches (vs Ireland and Sri Lanka) along with making up net run rate. If Australia beats Sri Lanka, they could still lose a three-way tie also involving Zimbabwe on net run rate, needing to demolish Oman in their final group game. Australia’s clash with Sri Lanka gets underway at 12:30am AEDT. Current T20 World Cup Group B standings: 1. Sri Lanka (2-0, 3.125 NRR) 2. Zimbabwe (2-0, 1.984 NRR) 3. Australia (1-1, 1.100 NRR) 4. Ireland (1-2, 0.150 NRR) 5. Oman (0-3, -4.455 NRR)
