'He'll be struggling' - Steven Smith sheds light on injured Matthew Short, set to miss semis

Australia are likely to restructure its top order for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final after Matthew Short suffered a quad injury during the team’s final league match against Afghanistan on Friday. Short’s injury is expected to rule him out of the knockout clash, giving the Aussies a selection headache ahead of the semi-final.

Matthew Short picked up the injury late in Afghanistan's innings, which hampered his movement while batting. Although he opened alongside Travis Head, his ability to run between the wickets was severely restricted, forcing him to rely on big shots. The right-hander managed to score 20 off 15 balls in an opening partnership of 44 runs in 4.3 overs before getting caught at mid-on. After the match, Australian captain Steven Smith opened up on Short's chances of playing the semi-final. 

"I think he'll be struggling. I think we saw tonight that he wasn't moving very well. I think it's probably going to be too quick between games for him to recover," Smith said.

Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Rain denies result in Afghanistan versus Australia tie

Australia uncertain over their semi-final venue

With Short likely ruled out, Australia has a few options to consider. Jake Fraser-McGurk, who was added to the squad as a replacement for the injured Mitchell Marsh, is a natural replacement at the top of the order. Another option could be all-rounder Aaron Hardie if the team decides to reshuffle its batting lineup.

"We've got a few guys there to come in, and we'll be able to fill a job," Smith added.

If Short is officially ruled out of the tournament, the side may also call upon traveling reserve Cooper Connolly. With short being sidelined, it would not only affect the batting lineup but also remove a handy spin-bowling option from the attack. The all-rounder had played a crucial role against Afghanistan, conceding just 21 runs in his seven overs. However, the former champions still consist of part-time spin options in Head and Marnus Labuschagne, the latter having taken two wickets against England earlier in the tournament.

Another concern for the side is the uncertainty over their semi-final venue. The team will have to wait until the conclusion of the India vs New Zealand game to know whether they will play in Dubai or Lahore. If South Africa defeats England and tops Group B, Australia will face the winner of India vs New Zealand. However, if England wins, Australia will meet the loser of that clash.

If Australia plays in Dubai, they will have a little over 24 hours to prepare, with conditions expected to favor spinners. However, playing in Lahore could be better for them, as they have already played two group-stage matches there, including their victory over England while chasing 352.