Steve Smith, who had been struggling with nausea and dizziness in the days leading up to the pink-ball Test, was withdrawn on the morning of the match. Veteran batsman Usman Khawaja was rushed back into the playing XI as a late replacement, despite not being named in the original lineup.
Australia captain Pat Cummins confirmed Smith’s absence after winning the toss and opting to bat first under clear, sunny conditions in Adelaide.
“He is feeling unwell and has headed home. We’re fortunate to have someone of Uzzie’s experience come straight in,” Cummins said, as quoted by the ICC.
Khawaja will slot into Smith’s customary No. 4 position, while Travis Head will continue opening the batting alongside Jake Weatherald. Cricket Australia later clarified that Smith is being treated for a possible vestibular issue, a condition he has experienced intermittently in the past, and is expected to recover in time for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
“Steve was assessed closely and was close to being available. However, due to the persistence of symptoms, the decision was made not to proceed,” Cricket Australia said in a statement.
Australia made three changes to the side that secured a dominant eight-wicket win in the second Test in Brisbane. Along with Khawaja, spinner Nathan Lyon returned to the XI, while Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett made way.
England, meanwhile, made one change to their lineup, with seamer Josh Tongue coming in for Gus Atkinson. England captain Ben Stokes admitted he too would have chosen to bat first on what appeared to be a good batting surface.
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