Australia’s star batter Steve Smith ruled out of Adelaide Test on the morning of the third Ashes match at Adelaide Oval after experiencing vertigo-type symptoms, forcing a last-minute change to the playing XI.
Usman Khawaja has been recalled to the side and will bat at No. 4.
Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed the development shortly before the start of play, describing Smith’s condition as a potential vestibular issue.
The 35-year-old had been feeling unwell for several days and was closely monitored before the decision was taken not to risk him.
Vertigo Symptoms Force Late Withdrawal
Smith had missed training on Monday due to illness, but returned to practice on Tuesday and was the first batter in the nets.
However, he appeared uncomfortable during the session and left the ground following a discussion with head coach and selector Andrew McDonald.
“Over the past few days, he has been feeling unwell, with symptoms including nausea and dizziness,” a CA spokesperson said.
“He was assessed and monitored closely and was close to being available to play. However, given the persistence of symptoms, a decision was made not to proceed.”
CA added that Smith is being treated for a potential vestibular issue, something he has experienced intermittently in the past, and is expected to be available for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
Cummins Confirms Khawaja’s Inclusion
Australian captain Pat Cummins, who returned to lead the side after Smith captained the first two Tests, confirmed Khawaja’s inclusion after winning the toss.
“Steve’s been feeling a bit unwell the last couple of days. He gave it a crack this morning but didn’t think he was going to get up for this one,”
Cummins said.
“He’s headed off home. We’re pretty lucky to have someone like Usman who can step straight in. He’ll bat at No. 4.”
Khawaja Returns to Middle Order
Khawaja’s recall comes just days after it appeared unlikely that he would feature again in Australia’s Test side. Despite being fully fit following a back injury, he had been left out due to the success of the Jake Weatherald–Travis Head opening partnership in the first two Tests.
The selectors have decided to retain the opening pair, with Khawaja slotting into the middle order. While he has only batted at No. 4 twice in Test cricket, it remains his preferred position in first-class cricket, where he averages 53.15 with 10 centuries.
Khawaja will also become the first 39-year-old to play Test cricket for Australia in 40 years, underlining the remarkable nature of his comeback.
Smith’s Recent Absences
Smith has now missed two of Australia’s last six Tests due to injury or illness. Earlier this year, he sat out the opening Test of the West Indies tour with a finger injury sustained during the World Test Championship final, when Josh Inglis filled in at No. 4.
Before that, Smith had not missed a Test since the 2019 Ashes, when he was ruled out with concussion. Although he has dealt with vertigo episodes in recent years, this is the first time it has forced him to miss a Test match.
Australia will hope Smith recovers fully ahead of the Boxing Day Test, while Khawaja’s return adds experience and stability to the batting order at a crucial stage of the Ashes series.
