Overview
- Smith returned from a six-week New York break, completed his first full net against bowlers, and said it takes him “two hits” to feel match ready.
- He confirmed he will play two Sheffield Shield matches for New South Wales against Queensland and Victoria before the November 21 opener in Perth.
- Pat Cummins remains a major doubt for the first Test as he recovers from a lumbar bone-stress injury, with reports noting he has yet to resume bowling.
- Smith indicated flexibility on batting position amid discussions that could see him move to No.3 and Cameron Green at No.4.
- Marnus Labuschagne’s four domestic centuries have strengthened his recall case, while Smith backed Scott Boland, with Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, to cover any seam gap.