The Ashes: Steve Smith out of Adelaide Test with illness, Usman Khawaja earns shock reprieve
Australian are confident Steve Smith will be fit to return for the Boxing Day Test after the star’s dramatic late withdrawal in Adelaide handed veteran Usman Khawaja a shock reprieve.
Khawaja’s Test career appeared all but over when he was left out of the Australian team after missing the second match of the series with a back injury.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.But he batted at No.4 - and helped steady the home side on Day 1 - in place of Smith after the batting master failed to overcome vertigo-like symptoms he had battled during the week.
“Over the past few days he has been feeling unwell, with symptoms including nausea and dizziness,” a Cricket Australia spokesperson said.
“He was assessed and monitored closely and was close to being available to play. However, given the persistence of symptoms, a decision was made not to proceed.
“He is being treated for a potential vestibular issue. This is something Steve has experienced intermittently in the past and is being managed accordingly. He is expected to be available for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.”
Smith had hardly trained since Australian players landed in Adelaide on Saturday.
He was seen speaking with captain Pat Cummins and coach Andrew McDonald before the start of the match on Wednesday .
Smith was ruled out of a World Cup game against Afghanistan in 2023 with the same issue.
