Steve Smith Out With Neck Injury

Australian batter Steve Smith has sustained a cervical facet joint injury in his neck. He will not be considered for selection until the home Test series against New Zealand in December.

Smith hurt his neck during the second Test contest against South Africa. Scans have since found that Smith has developed a cervical facet joint injury.

Cricket Australia confirmed that Smith developed neck pain on day four of the second Test in Gqeberha. Subsequent MRI imaging confirmed the injury. Due to this and his limited range of motion, he was unfit to participate in the current Test.

Smith will continue to receive treatment and rehabilitation, with a full return to availability anticipated for the upcoming home Test series against New Zealand.