Smith Ruled Out as Ashes Drama Unfolds on a Chaotic Morning in Adelaide
What was meant to be a routine build-up to the third Ashes Test at Adelaide Oval suddenly turned into a dramatic morning for Australian cricket fans. Just minutes before the toss, news broke that Steve Smith, Australia’s most reliable batter, had been ruled out of the match due to illness. The announcement sent shockwaves through the ground and completely changed the complexion of the contest against England.
Smith had been dealing with nausea and dizziness linked to recurring inner ear issues, something he has battled before in his career. Although a brief fitness test was attempted in the nets on the morning of the match, it quickly became clear that he wouldn’t be fit enough to play. Around 20 minutes before the toss, a visibly distressed Smith was seen leaving Adelaide Oval, confirming the worst fears for the home side.
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With Australia still winning the toss and choosing to bat first, a last-minute reshuffle was forced. Usman Khawaja was recalled into the XI and slotted straight in at No.4, replacing Smith. It was a remarkable turnaround for Khawaja, whose Test future had appeared uncertain just 24 hours earlier after he was left out when the team was originally announced. Battling back spasms earlier in the series, the veteran suddenly found himself handed a lifeline on the biggest stage.
Captain Pat Cummins later explained that Smith had given everything to try and be available, but the call had to be made in the best interests of the player. It was also confirmed that Smith is expected to recover in time for the fourth Test in Melbourne, offering some relief to Australian supporters.
Despite the disruption, Australia stuck with their opening combination of Travis Head and Jake Weatherald, with Khawaja moving into the middle order. At nearly 39 years old, Khawaja shared an emotional moment with batting coach Michael di Venuto during the pre-match huddle, underlining just how unexpected and meaningful this recall was for him.
England, meanwhile, would have quietly welcomed the development. With temperatures soaring past 35 degrees and expected to climb even higher over the coming days, bowling in Adelaide was already going to be a challenge. Not having to deal with Smith, Australia’s premier run-scorer, was seen as a significant boost for the visitors.
This sudden twist added yet another layer of intrigue to an Ashes series Australia already lead 2–0. What began as a normal Test morning quickly became a reminder of how fast things can change in cricket, and how opportunity can appear when it’s least expected.
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