Smith ruled out of deciding Test as Australia makes four changes
Steve Smith failed a fitness test on his neck hours before Australia's series-deciding third Test, forcing the team to make four changes.
Steve Smith has been ruled out of the third Test against South Africa after failing a last-minute neck fitness test just before the match at Cape Town's Newlands. The 37-year-old arrived at the ground early Tuesday morning wearing a heat pack but could not hit balls in the nets.
Australia captain Pat Cummins won the toss and chose to bowl first. Four changes reshape the Australian XI: Josh Inglis, Cooper Connolly, Cameron Green and Nathan Lyon all return.
Connolly replaces Beau Webster at No. 7 to provide a left-arm spin option, while Scott Boland makes way for Lyon. The series is locked at 1-1 after Australia won the first Test and South Africa won the second.
- 37 years old
- Smith's age
- 4 inclusions
- Players returning
- 1-1 after two Tests
- Series score
- Newlands, Cape Town
- Test venue
Why it mattersSmith's absence in a deciding Test is a huge blow to Australia; the team is gambling on form and fitness from returning players under tournament pressure.
AustraliaAustralian cricket fans face uncertainty with their star batter sidelined in the match that decides the series. The deciding Test runs October 27-31 Cape Town time.
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