Steve Smith was ruled out of Australia’s playing XI just minutes before the start of the third Ashes Test at the Adelaide Oval, triggering confusion and speculation after he was seen leaving the ground shortly before the toss.
The uncertainty began when BBC commentator Alison Mitchell posted on X that Smith had crossed the outfield from the dressing room with a rucksack and team security, appearing to exit the stadium. With the toss approaching, questions quickly arose over whether Australia were facing a late injury or fitness concern.
Former Australia spinner Kerry O’Keefe then added to the intrigue on Kayo Sports, saying Smith had held a long discussion with captain Pat Cummins regarding his fitness. O’Keefe suggested Smith walked away “disconsolate” after the conversation, while also noting unconfirmed reports that Smith may have been hit on the head during training, raising initial concerns around concussion protocols.
Clarity, however, came at the toss.
Australia won the toss and elected to bat, with Cummins confirming that Smith had been feeling unwell for the past couple of days, leading the team to take a cautious approach and rule him out of the match at the last moment.
“Steve has been feeling a little bit unwell the last couple of days,” Cummins said. “Uzzie (Usman Khawaja) will bat at four.”
Usman Khawaja was brought back into the XI as Smith’s replacement, slotting into the middle order for the crucial third Test. Team management indicated that the decision was precautionary, aimed at ensuring Smith’s recovery rather than risking his availability later in the series.
Smith’s late withdrawal is a significant blow for Australia, given his experience and influence in Ashes contests. However, with Australia already leading the five-Test series 2–0, the hosts remain well placed as they aim to seal the series in Adelaide.
