Australia suffered a late blow on the eve of the third Ashes Test against England, with batting star Steve Smith ruled out of the match at Adelaide Oval due to illness.
Smith had been part of Australia’s XI after leading the team to convincing wins in the first two Tests, but he began feeling unwell in the days leading up to the Adelaide clash. Although he took part in a brief training session on Tuesday, he was still struggling with nausea and dizziness, prompting team doctors and management to take the precautionary decision to withdraw him on the morning of the match.
The symptoms have been linked to a vestibular issue, a condition that affects balance and has troubled Smith intermittently in the past. The Australian camp said he was monitored closely but ultimately judged unfit to play, with the priority on his health and recovery. There is optimism, however, that he could return for the next Test in Melbourne over the Boxing Day period.
In Smith’s place, veteran left-hander Usman Khawaja was recalled to the side and slotted in at number four in the batting order. Khawaja, who turns 39 this week, has been a reliable figure in Australian cricket for many years and seized his opportunity with a solid innings on the opening day.
Australia captain Pat Cummins, returning from his own injury layoff, confirmed the change at the toss and expressed confidence in the squad’s depth despite the setback. With Australia leading the five-match series 2–0, they need only to avoid defeat in Adelaide to retain the Ashes urn.
Smith’s absence is a significant story not just because of his run-scoring prowess but also because of his leadership role throughout this summer’s series. His experience and presence at No. 4 has been a stabilising force for the hosts, and the team will now look to others to step up in his absence.
