Steve Smith Misses 3rd Ashes Test, Usman Khawaja Drafted in at The Last Minute

In a last-minute shake-up just before the toss, veteran opener Usman Khawaja was drafted into Australia's lineup for the third Ashes Test against England at Adelaide Oval on December 17, 2025, replacing star batter Steve Smith, who was ruled out due to illness. Australia captain Pat Cummins, back from his own injury layoff, announced the change after winning the toss and opting to bat first under clear skies, with Khawaja set to occupy Smith's usual No. 4 position in the order.

Smith had been struggling with symptoms, including nausea and dizziness, in the days leading up to the day-night test. Cricket Australia later confirmed he was being treated for a potential vestibular issue—a balance-related condition he has experienced intermittently since a 2019 concussion. Despite initially being named in the XI and coming close to selection, persistent symptoms led to his withdrawal on the morning of the match, with the board expressing confidence in his availability for the fourth Test at Melbourne.

The dramatic inclusion handed Khawaja an unexpected reprieve after he was overlooked in the original team announcement the previous day. Australia made three changes in total from their eight-wicket victory in the second Test in Brisbane, also welcoming back spinner Nathan Lyon alongside Cummins. England, trailing 2-0 in the series and desperate to stay alive in the contest, introduced seamer Josh Tongue in place of Gus Atkinson as their sole alteration.

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The pivotal Adelaide encounter began with a moment of silence in observance of recent national events, as Australia sought to extend their dominant series lead while England aimed to mount a comeback in the iconic pink-ball fixture.

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