Australia's hopes of securing an unassailable lead in the Ashes series have been dealt a significant blow after star batter Steve Smith was forced to withdraw from the third Test in Adelaide due to illness.
Last-Minute Withdrawal Shakes Australian Batting Order
Steve Smith, who played a pivotal role in Australia's victories in the first two Tests, was originally named in the starting XI on Tuesday evening. However, in a dramatic turn of events on Wednesday morning, he was ruled out, with his absence confirmed by returning captain Pat Cummins. Cummins himself makes a comeback after missing the second Test with a back injury.
The news sends a ripple of uncertainty through the Australian camp on the morning of a match they had hoped would seal the series. Smith's form and experience at number four are considered central to the team's batting stability.
Veteran Khawaja Seizes Unexpected Opportunity
In Smith's place, the selectors have turned to the experienced Usman Khawaja. The 38-year-old, who will turn 39 on the second day of the match, appeared to have played his final Test for Australia after being omitted from the squad earlier in the series.
This recall represents a remarkable and unexpected chance for Khawaja to prove his enduring class at the highest level. He has been tasked with filling the crucial number four batting position, a slot vacated by Smith, rather than opening the innings. This decision means the established opening partnership of Travis Head and Jake Weatherald remains intact at the top of the order.
Toss Decision Adds to Adelaide Drama
The drama unfolded further at the toss, where Pat Cummins, upon winning, made the surprising decision to invite England to bowl first. This means Australia's reconfigured batting line-up, now without its lynchpin, will be put to the test immediately under the Adelaide sun.
England, who must win this Test to keep the series alive, will see Smith's absence as a major boost to their chances. All eyes will now be on how Khawaja integrates into the middle order and whether Australia's depth can withstand the loss of one of the world's premier batsmen in such a high-stakes encounter.
