Steve Smith’s head injury means the Australian cricket superstar will miss the potentially series-deciding third Ashes Test match with England. He has been listed as out due to illness. The decision was made in the early hours of the match after Smith had developed symptoms such as nausea and a heavy head. This recent advance is a huge blow to Australia. Smith has undoubtedly been the series’ most important player thus far.
On the day of our interview, Smith told us he had been very sick in the last few days. When his condition dramatically deteriorated on the day he was to play his first Test match, Cricket Australia announced his withdrawal.
“Over the past few days he has been feeling unwell, with symptoms including nausea and dizziness.” – Cricket Australia
With Smith absent, it clears a path to selection for Usman Khawaja, who will likely join the XI in Smith’s place. Khawaja’s inclusion comes at a crucial time as Australia aims to maintain their momentum after winning the first two Tests under Smith’s leadership in the absence of regular captain Pat Cummins.
Pat Cummins remarked on Smith’s condition, stating, “Steve has been feeling a little bit unwell over the past couple of days.” He further added, “He gave it a crack this morning, but didn’t think he was going to get up for this one. He’s headed off home.”
The third Test at the Adelaide Oval will continue one of cricket’s most bitter rivalries. Smith has been the most important player in Ashes matches, past history of thriving under pressure serves well. He produced an awe-inspiring knock in the 2022 Sydney Ashes Test. Remarkably, he scored hundreds in each innings batting at the number five order slot.
This has unfortunately not been the first time Smith has dealt with the unfavorable luck heading into big pivotal matches. Earlier this year he only played in Australia’s first Test against West Indies, missing the rest of the series on the sidelines with a broken finger. On top of that, he missed one home Test after a ban due to his involvement in the now infamous ‘Sandpapergate’ scandal of 2019.
Smith shown in previous matches, took a nasty blow to the groin while batting in the nets during practice on Tuesday morning. This incident further called into question his fitness, particularly given that his illness had not yet been publicly confirmed.
In spite of these difficulties, Smith has continued to be an unstoppable force on the field. He has a pretty great track record against England. Indeed, only Sir Donald Bradman has made more runs for Australia in Ashes Tests than he has.
Smith often reminds fans that fast bowler Jofra Archer has never dismissed him, even during Archer’s memorable debut spell in 2019 when Smith was concussed after being struck on the head.
Smith’s absence from this pivotal match raises questions about Australia’s strategy moving forward. There is optimism regarding his recovery. According to news reports, he’s likely to be back in time for the Melbourne Test on Boxing Day.
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