SYDNEY : Australia expect Steve Smith to be fit for the first home test against New Zealand in Perth in December after scans ruled out serious neck damage, Cricket Australia said.
The 37-year-old batter was ruled out of the third and deciding test against South Africa in Cape Town after struggling with a sore neck for several days.
Scans confirmed an injury to a cervical facet joint, which helps stabilise movement in the neck.
“Steve will continue to receive treatment and rehabilitation, with a full return to availability anticipated for the upcoming home test series against New Zealand,” Cricket Australia said in a statement.
Team staff had hoped Smith would be able to play at Newlands after he batted in the nets on Sunday, but ultimately deemed him unfit.
All-rounder Cameron Green, returning from injury, took Smith’s usual number four position in the batting order in Cape Town.
Australia were 330-4 at the close of the second day in reply to South Africa’s first-innings total of 329, leaving the series finely poised.
Australia will host New Zealand in a four-test series, beginning at Perth Stadium on December 9.
