Steve Smith will miss cricket until December after being diagnosed with a neck injury

Steve Smith will not be available for selection until Australia’s home Test series against New Zealand in December after scans confirmed a neck injury, ruling him out of the ongoing series decider against South Africa in Cape Town.

The 37-year-old felt a sore throat on the fourth day of the second Test in Gqeberha last week. Despite hopes of recovering in time for the third Test at Newlands, Smith failed a late fitness test on Tuesday morning and was withdrawn from the playing XI.

Cricket Australia confirmed the diagnosis on Thursday, saying an MRI revealed an injury to the cervical facet joint, which helps guide and stabilize movement in the neck.

“Steve Smith developed neck pain on the fourth day of the second Test at Gqeberha last week. A subsequent MRI confirmed a cervical facet joint injury. Due to this and his limited range of motion, he was unfit to take part in the current Test,” Cricket Australia said in a statement.

“Steve will continue to receive treatment and rehabilitation, with a full return to availability expected for the upcoming home Test series against New Zealand.”

Smith’s absence forced Australia to change their batting order for the series decider. Cameron Green moved to No.4, Smith’s usual position, while Josh Inglis was recalled to bat at No.5. Matthew Renshaw returned to the starting position alongside Travis Head.

The changes paid dividends on the second day at Newlands on Wednesday as Australia struggled after losing two quick wickets.

In response to South Africa’s first innings total of 329, Australia reached 330 for four at stumps to take a slender one-run lead. Renshaw scored 74 while Green 65 as the pair added 126 runs for the third wicket to steady the innings.

Inglis then made an unbeaten 85, with Alex Carey also not out on 51. The pair added an unbroken stand to take Australia past the total in South Africa and put the visitors in a strong position to decide the series.

Australia are now focusing on Smith’s return for the first Test against New Zealand starting in Perth on December 9. The veteran will continue his recovery and rehabilitation in the coming weeks.

The four-match series against New Zealand will be an important part of Australia’s domestic summer, followed by a tough test of cricket. Australia will also travel to India in January next year for the much-anticipated five-match Test series against Shubman Gill’s side.

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