Australian selectors are facing criticism after being accused of showing disrespect toward senior batter Steve Smith.
Despite delivering strong performances in the Big Bash League, Smith was initially not included in the World Cup squad and was later named only as a replacement. He officially joined the squad ahead of a crucial match against Sri Lanka, but Australia’s defeat in that game ended their chances of progressing to the Super 8 stage.
In their final group match against Oman on Friday, Smith was again left out of the playing XI. He was deployed as a substitute fielder for two overs, during which his involvement was limited to retrieving a teammate’s fallen towel near the boundary and tossing it back inside the field.
The decision has sparked debate on social media, with fans criticising the selectors and describing the treatment of the experienced cricketer as unfair. No official response has been issued by team management regarding the controversy.
