'I don’t think he will be starting in the 11' - George Bailey hints at Steve Smith's omission from New Zealand clash

The reigning T20 World Cup champions Australia will commence their title defense with a clash against Trans-Tasman rivals and last year's finalists New Zealand on October 22 to kick off the Super 12 stage of the tournament. But the hosts are concerned with the form of their mercurial batter Steven Smith, who is unlikely to be part of the opening fixture according to Australian chairman of selectors George Bailey.

Australia suffered a narrow defeat in their first warm-up encounter against strong contenders India following a 2-0 series loss against England last week. Former Australian skipper and batting stalwart Steve Smith's place has been under scrutiny in the T20I side, and after another sluggish outing against India, he is all set to be sidelined for Australia's mouth-watering clash against the Kiwis.

“I think all the members of our 15 have a role to play but I don’t think that will be starting in the 11 for Steve. I think that should we need a role from him at some stage, then absolutely,” Bailey told The West Australian.

Bailey also touched upon Mitchell Marsh's ankle injury which has restricted him from bowling since August

When asked about the bowling contributions of all-rounder Mitchell Marsh, the former Australian skipper stated that Marsh is recovering well from his ankle injury but won't be bowling for the side right now. Bailey stated that the team doesn't want to risk the player and will wait for his availability in the bowling department. 

“He is tracking well. I don’t think it is any secret that our all-rounders are an important part of our structure. I think he has hit all the markers that he wanted to but I think given the importance of that (allrounder) structure it is not something we wanted to risk too early but I fully expect that Mitch will be available and ready to go, whether that is Saturday or game two,” Bailey added.