Smith out of BPL

Former Australian captain Steve Smith's Bangladesh Premier League stint with Comilla Victorians has officially come to an end. The middle-order batsman, who was experiencing discomfort in his elbow, returned to Sydney on Thursday seeking a diagnosis and was later informed that he would require surgery.

Smith had previously expressed that he would return and complete the tournament if the injury was not too serious and so, the news came as a huge blow for the cricketer who is also now likely miss out on the upcoming Pakistan Super League and the first phase of the Indian Premier League.

Steve Smith during today's match. Photo: Firoz Ahmed

Smith is scheduled for surgery on Tuesday after the specialised MRI he underwent in Australia revealed that his injury was far worse than expected. Smith will be required to wear a shoulder brace for the next six weeks, further delaying his comeback to international cricket following the one year ban due to ball tampering.

Smith led Comilla in the first two BPL fixtures before succumbing to the injury. He was expected to return to the international level in March through a series against Pakistan.

The injury also raised concerns over his inclusion in Australia's World Cup squad since the last date of submission for the finalised team list is April 23.