News Desk: Australian batting star Steve Smith has been ruled out of consideration for the upcoming home Test series against New Zealand in December after suffering a neck injury during the ongoing Test series against South Africa.
Cricket Australia confirmed that Smith has sustained a cervical facet joint injury, which has restricted his neck movement and prevented him from playing in the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town. The right-handed batter experienced neck pain on the fourth day of the second Test in Gqeberha last week.
An MRI scan subsequently confirmed the injury. Cricket Australia said Smith was unfit to participate in the current Test and would continue receiving medical treatment and rehabilitation.
“Steve will continue to receive treatment and rehabilitation, with a full return to availability anticipated for the upcoming home Test series against New Zealand,” the board stated.
Smith's absence came as a setback for Australia ahead of the series decider, which began on Tuesday. The experienced batter was replaced by Josh Inglis, who made an immediate impact after being recalled to the Test side.
Inglis was unbeaten on 85 as Australia reached 330 for four in their first innings, taking a narrow one-run lead over South Africa. Matt Renshaw contributed 74, while Cameron Green scored 65 and wicketkeeper Alex Carey remained unbeaten on 51. Marnus Labuschagne, however, continued his difficult run in Test cricket, falling for a duck.
South Africa had earlier been dismissed for 329 after Australia elected to field first. Aiden Markram scored 78, Marques Ackermann made 95, and Marco Jansen added 52 to strengthen the hosts' innings. Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc was the standout performer with the ball, claiming six wickets for 72 runs.
Inglis last played Test cricket against England during the Ashes series in Adelaide late last year. His confident return impressed his teammates, with Renshaw praising his positive approach under pressure after Australia lost two quick wickets.
Smith's recovery will now be closely monitored as Australia prepare for their December home series against New Zealand. The team will hope the former captain regains full fitness in time to return to international cricket.
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