Australia give Smith chance to prove fitness ahead of decider
Australian cricket captain Pat Cummins has confirmed that batter Steve Smith is being monitored for a neck injury ahead of the final test match against South Africa. The team is managing the lineup carefully as they look to decide the series in Cape Town.
Why it matters
The match is a high-stakes decider in an international cricket series, drawing attention due to Smith's history and the team's recent performance.
Australia's Steve Smith walks back to the pavilion after losing his wicket, caught out by England's Jamie Smith off the bowling of Josh Tongue , during The Ashes - Australia v England - Fifth Test, at Sydney Cricket Ground, January 7, 2026. REUTERS/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake
CAPE TOWN, Oct 26 - Australia will give key batter Steve Smith as much time as possible to prove his fitness ahead of the third and final test against South Africa at Newlands, captain Pat Cummins said on Monday.
Smith injured his neck in South Africa’s innings and 31-run victory in the second test in Gqeberha which levelled the series at 1-1 going into the decider in Cape Town starting on Tuesday.
"Hopefully, it all goes well and he'll be there," Cummins told reporters on Monday. "But we just want to wait for that last piece of the puzzle (before naming a team).
Headlinne story · 4 newsrooms
Australia Adjusts Squad and Awaits Smith Fitness for Series Decider
What every outlet reported, where they differ, and how each framed it →
Also covering this story
4 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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