Australia captain Steve Smith has been rested for the rest of the Sri Lanka series and will be returning back to Australia immediately.

The reason behind this sudden decision is to rest him is due to the hectic schedule that lies ahead of Australia. 

Steve Smith had to be talked into it and convinced but the sheer amount of cricket to come made him agree to take the decision.

Smith said,

“

I hate missing cricket, but in the long run it will do me a world of good. 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.

”

In his absence, vice-captain David Warner will lead Australia for the rest of the matches. 

Australia’s chief selector, Rod Marsh said, “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.”

He further added, 

“

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.

”

On Warner leading the team, he said, “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 have a hectic schedule ahead of them. They tour South Africa next month, with six Test matches up ahead. They play a few ODIs against New Zealand in between before they head to India.

Australia are currently tied 1-1 against Sri Lanka in the ongoing ODI series.

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