International Cricket Update: As the Delhi Capitals were removed from the Indian Premier League, Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis was on getting additional treatment on his hamstring. Stoinis made his first appearance after hurting his hamstring while bowling on September 22, however, he was not bowled in the semi-final after a slow 16 off 23 balls when brought in to bat at number three by coach Ricky Ponting
He was substituted by Australian colleague Steve Smith during a wild finale to the game, which the Kolkata Knight Riders won after dropping 6-7 in their run chase
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Ponting was questioned after the game about why he chose Stoinis over Smith in the last game, even though the all-rounder appeared to be out of shape.
-He missed about three weeks with that hamstring injury, so he hadn-t played any cricket,- Ponting said.
-We desperately wanted him in the team today because we knew he could bat at the top of the order, but we also knew he could bat at the death if required.
-I think it was the right decision.-
Both Stoinis and Smith will now join the Australian T20 team in Dubai, despite having played very little live cricket before the World Cup start on October 23 against South Africa.
Smith, who missed the West Indies and Bangladesh white-ball tours, appeared in only two of Delhi's eight games when the IPL started last month, his only appearances since April. Stoinis also appeared in two games but did not complete either.
Australia has agreed to play two warm-up games before the World Cup, against New Zealand and India, which may be vital for several players seeking playing experience. After the birth of his first child, a boy, on Friday, fast bowler Pat Cummins is also expected to be late to team camp.
Josh Hazlewood will also join the Australian team following the IPL 2021 final on Friday, playing for CSK.