Steve Smith ruled out of third Test against South Africa with injury
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 27, 2026, 8:31 AM
Last updated Oct 27, 2026

Steve Smith has been ruled out of the third Test between Australia and South Africa due to a neck injury. He struggled during a late fitness test and was unable to bat properly, resulting in his withdrawal from the match in Cape Town. Captain Pat Cummins confirmed Smith’s discomfort, leading to four changes in the Australian lineup. Josh Inglis will take Smith's place in the middle order, as Australia looks to break a 1-1 series tie. The match is currently underway with Australia bowling first.
- •Smith ruled out due to a neck injury
- •Australia makes four changes in the lineup
- •Josh Inglis replaces Smith in the middle order
- •Australia elected to bowl first at Newlands
- •Series tied 1-1, Test match is ongoing
- 8:31 AMYahoo Sports — Steve Smith ruled out of third Test with neck injury in huge blow for Australia
"Smith had been set to feature in the series decider but failed a late fitness test
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