Steve Smith to return home from IPL

Melbourne - Cricket Australia (CA) has asked Pune Warriors all-rounder Steve Smith to return to Australia from the Indian Premier League (IPL) due to a lower-back pain complaint.

Smith was not likely to be considered for any of Pune Warriors’ remaining matches and with the approval of Cricket Australia, he will be returning home for treatment.

While the injury is minor, Pune respected Smith’s upcoming playing commitments and advised it was best he returned to Australia for treatment.

CA expects Smith to be fully fit for his upcoming commitments with Australia A, of which he will be vice captain.