By afiur
October 28, 2026
Smith experienced neck stiffness during Australia’s match-eve training session and was scheduled to undergo a fitness test ahead of the final Test
However, the experienced batter was left out of the playing XI for the final Test at Newlands in Cape Town
The injury concern had also troubled Smith during the second Test in Gqeberha, where he was unable to bat for an extended period
Australia have made four changes to their playing XI for the series decider, bringing in Josh Inglis, Cameron Green, Cooper Connolly and Nathan Lyon
Matt Renshaw, who has impressed since returning to the side, is set to open alongside Travis Head, while Green is expected to bat at No. 4 in Smith’s absence