Australia are hopeful that Steve Smith will recover from a neck injury in time for the home Test series against New Zealand, scheduled to begin in December.
Australian batting star Steve Smith has been ruled out of the decisive Test against South Africa after scans confirmed an injury involving a joint in his neck. However, Cricket Australia expects the experienced batter to recover before the upcoming home series against New Zealand.
According to Cricket Australia, Smith experienced neck pain on the fourth day of the second Test against South Africa in Gqeberha. An MRI scan subsequently confirmed the injury.
Neck Pain Forces Smith Out of Final Test
Smith was unavailable for the final Test at Newlands because the injury restricted his movement. He had also experienced discomfort during the first Test, and the problem affected his batting position in the second match, where he was moved down to number seven in the second innings.
Initially, Australia head coach Andrew McDonald and captain Pat Cummins were hopeful that Smith would be available. However, after the discomfort persisted during practice, he withdrew from the match.
Recovery Underway Ahead of New Zealand Series
Cricket Australia has confirmed that Smith will continue his treatment and rehabilitation as he works towards regaining full fitness.
Australia’s Test series against New Zealand is scheduled to begin on December 9 in Perth. Smith is expected to have time to recover before the series, although his availability will depend on his rehabilitation and fitness progress.
His recovery will be closely watched as Australia prepare for the upcoming home series.