Prior to the Sri Lanka Test series, the Australia stand-in captain Steve Smith sustained an elbow injury while playing for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League. Smith has been open to elbow issues, especially after undergoing elbow surgery in 2019—an injury that appeared while playing in a rain-affected game against the Sydney Thunder. The injury has delayed Smith's departure for Australia's training camp in Dubai, where he was preparing to lead the team in two Tests in Sri Lanka. Cricket Australia (CA) stated that Smith is consulting a specialist but remains hopeful of traveling later this week. If Smith is unavailable, Travis Head could step in as Test captain for the first time, with regular skipper Pat Cummins on paternity leave. Read also: Ravindra Jadeja likely to play for Saurashtra Matthew Kuhnemann's fractured thumb Left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann is also facing fitness issues after fracturing his right thumb in a recent BBL match. Kuhnemann, who has undergone surgery, will remain in Australia temporarily but aims to join the team in Sri Lanka if his recovery progresses. Despite the injury being to his non-bowling hand, challenges remain in batting and fielding. Kuhnemann’s absence could create an opportunity for allrounder Cooper Connolly to make his Test debut. Connolly, who bowls left-arm spin, expressed optimism about learning and adapting to subcontinent conditions. In a separate concern, Pat Cummins is recovering from left ankle soreness following the Test series against India. While named captain for the upcoming Champions Trophy, his participation remains uncertain as he undergoes further rehabilitation. Australia faces a challenging lead-up to the Sri Lanka series, with key players managing injuries and potential squad changes on the horizon.