Steve Smith Ruled Out in Adelaide After Sudden Vertigo Symptoms

Steve Smith was on the ground at Adelaide nets, chatting with staff, moving normally. Around 20 minutes before the toss, the vice-captain walked off, spoke briefly with coach Andrew McDonald, and disappeared down the race.

Cricket Australia confirmed Smith was withdrawn after reporting dizziness and nausea. Medical staff kept him under observation, weighing the risk. The symptoms did not ease, and the decision was taken to keep the match intact.

Smith had already missed training earlier in the week after feeling unwell. He returned to bat on Tuesday and was named in the XI, suggesting the issue had passed. It hadn’t.

The governing body described the problem as a possible vestibular issue, essentially vertigo. He has dealt with similar episodes before, though rarely this close to a Test start.

Australia made it clear that the decision leaned on caution rather than crisis. Smith is expected to be available for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, pending recovery and clearance.

Smith captained Australia to dominant wins in Perth and Brisbane. His presence has anchored the middle order, absorbed pressure, and drained belief from England’s bowlers. Removing that pillar minutes before the play changed the air around the contest.

Khawaja Recalled, Balance Reshaped

The late withdrawal opened the door for Usman Khawaja, who had been left out despite long service and steady returns. Initially dropped as selectors backed Travis Head and Jake Weatherald at the top, Khawaja slid straight into the No.4 role.

At lunch, he stood unbeaten on 41 as Australia reached 94 for two, navigating a moment that could have spiralled.

Captain Pat Cummins acknowledged the relief of having an experienced replacement. The reshuffle was not part of the plan, but it avoided panic.

Australia still holds a 2-0 lead and entered the match hunting an unassailable advantage. England, bruised yet breathing, saw opportunity in the disruption. 

Smith’s absence capped a tense build-up, one shaped by expectation, dominance, and now uncertainty. Instead, it opened with a reminder that even settled teams can be jolted in an instant.