SYDNEY: Australia suffered a major blow ahead of the third Ashes Test after star batter Steve Smith was ruled out due to an ear-related issue.
Cricket Australia confirmed that Smith failed a fitness test after experiencing discomfort in his inner ear and was forced to withdraw just 20 minutes before the toss.
Following the late development, Usman Khawaja was recalled to the squad at the eleventh hour. Khawaja replaced Smith in the playing XI and batted at number four.
Speaking at the toss, Australian captain Pat Cummins said Smith had made an effort to play on the morning of the match but did not feel fit enough to take the field. Cummins added that the team was fortunate to have an experienced player like Khawaja available to step in at short notice.
Australia went on to announce their playing XI for the third Test of the Ashes series. At the Adelaide Test, the hosts won the toss and elected to bat first.
Usman Khawaja played a crucial innings, scoring 82 runs off 126 deliveries, including 10 boundaries. Australia were struggling at 94 for four when Khawaja stitched together a vital 91-run partnership for the fifth wicket with Alex Carey.
It is worth noting that Khawaja had suffered a back injury during the first Test and was not considered for selection in the second and third Tests initially.
Australia currently lead the five-match Ashes series 2-0.