North India Statesman
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Adelaide, December 17: Australia’s star batsman Steve Smith was ruled out of the third Ashes Test due to vertigo-like symptoms. On the morning of the match, Smith complained of dizziness and nausea, following which last-minute changes had to be made in the Australian team and Usman Khawaja returned to the playing eleven.
Cricket Australia confirmed shortly before the start of play that Smith had been feeling unwell for the past few days. He did not participate in the practice session on Monday, while he returned to the nets the next day, but did not look completely fit. He also suffered a groin injury during practice, due to which he had to take a long break.
A Cricket Australia spokesperson said, “Steve Smith has been experiencing symptoms such as nausea and dizziness over the past few days. He has been monitored closely and was very close to playing, but due to the symptoms continuing, a decision has been taken to not feed him. He is being treated for a possible vestibular problem. This problem has happened to him on and off in the past. It is expected that he will be available for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.”
After winning the toss, captain Pat Cummins confirmed Smith’s dismissal. Cummins, who has returned to captain the team after missing the first two Tests, said that Smith had given a fitness test in the morning, but was not fully prepared and returned home.
Cummins said, “Steve was not feeling well for the last few days. He tried to play this morning, but felt that he would not be fit for this match. The good thing for us is that an experienced player like Usman Khawaja is available, who can come into the team immediately. Usman will bat at number four.”
Thus, in the absence of Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja has been included in the playing eleven for the Adelaide Test.
