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Australia vs South Africa 2026; Steve Smith’s neck injury revealed, could Steve Smith have played against the Proteas in Cape Town, when will Steve Smith next play, news, analysis

The mystery neck problem that forced Steve Smith out of the Cape Town Test has been revealed as what Cricket Australia is calling a cervical facet joint injury.

Published: Wednesday, 28 October 2026 at 7:00 PM
Australia vs South Africa 2026; Steve Smith’s neck injury revealed, could Steve Smith have played against the Proteas in Cape Town, when will Steve Smith next play, news, analysis
Key Things to Know
  • MRI scans revealed Steve Smith suffered a cervical facet joint injury, forcing his withdrawal from the Cape Town Test.
  • Cricket Australia expects Smith to make a full recovery in time for the upcoming home series against New Zealand.
  • Josh Inglis was selected in Smith's place, with Cameron Green promoted to number four in the batting order.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Steve Smith was ruled out of the deciding third Test against South Africa in Cape Town after MRI scans revealed a cervical facet joint injury. The 37-year-old batter initially suffered the neck injury during the second Test in Gqeberha and withdrew on Monday morning after experiencing limited range of motion during net sessions. Australia adjusted their lineup by bringing in Josh Inglis and elevating Cameron Green to bat at number four.

Cricket Australia stated that Smith will undergo rehabilitation and is expected to achieve a full recovery ahead of the upcoming home Test series against New Zealand. Australian head coach Andrew McDonald acknowledged Smith's vital role in the lineup and addressed recent retirement speculation, expressing hope that the veteran batter will continue playing Test cricket for a long time.

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