Australia were forced into a last-minute change ahead of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide, with senior batter Steven Smith ruled out on the morning of the match after experiencing vertigo-like symptoms. The sudden development prompted a late reshuffle in the playing XI and paved the way for Usman Khawaja’s return to the Test side.
Cricket Australia confirmed that Smith had been battling dizziness and nausea over the past few days. Despite undergoing a fitness assessment on match morning and coming close to being declared available, the persistence of symptoms led team management to take a cautious approach and withdraw him from the contest.
Smith puts his health first.
According to Cricket Australia, Smith is undergoing treatment for a potential vestibular issue that he has occasionally encountered in the past. Medical staff closely monitored him before concluding that taking part in the Adelaide Test would put him at needless risk.
Officials have assured that the star batter’s illness is under control and that he should be OK for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, allaying fears of a long absence.
Smith had missed a training session before returning to the nets, when he appeared uncomfortable and took a break after being hit in the groin, indicating that his physical condition was not at its best prior to the game.
Khawaja Steps In as Cummins Returns to Lead
Australia captain Pat Cummins, who returned to the XI after missing the first two Tests, confirmed Smith’s withdrawal at the toss. Cummins revealed that Usman Khawaja would slot in at No. 4, a role he has handled with experience and composure in the past.
With Smith heading home to focus on recovery, the team leaned on Khawaja’s reliability to steady the batting order in a crucial Ashes encounter.
A Test of Depth for Australia
Smith’s absence is a significant blow given his Ashes pedigree, but Australia’s confidence in their squad depth was evident in the calm reshuffle. Khawaja’s recall not only strengthens the top order but also brings stability as the hosts aim to maintain momentum in the series.
As the Adelaide Test gets underway, all eyes will remain on Smith’s recovery timeline — and on how Australia adapts without one of their most dependable run-scorers.