![Smith missed the 3rd Test vs SA due to a neck injury [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1793596117224_Smithmissedthe3rdTestvsSAduetoaneckinjury.jpg?type=hq)
Smith missed the 3rd Test vs SA due to a neck injury [Source: AFP]
Australian head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed that it was Steve Smith who made the decision not to play in the third Test against South Africa, which the Australian side lost on the final day in Cape Town.
Smith missed the third Test due to a neck issue that troubled him in the second Test match. He first developed neck pain and stiffness on Day 4 of the second Test, and a subsequent MRI revealed limited range of motion.
Smith's decision not to play third Test: McDonald reveals
On the morning of the third Test in Cape Town, Smith, 37, took painkillers as he was determined to play the series decider against the Proteas. However, at the last minute, Smith pulled the trigger and decided not to play the Test match, which the Aussies lost.
Here's what McDonald said on Smith's decision to not play the series deciding Test match:
"You would have seen what we saw early in that net session the day before. It looked really positive – but you never know how you're going to pull up from that.
"All I'll say is the medical team and Steve gave it every chance, and that's all you can do. The next morning … he wasn't ready to play. He acknowledged that – and we do put a lot of trust into our players, in particular our senior players who know their bodies quite well," he told Cricket.com.au.
McDonald confirms Smith in the scheme of things for New Zealand Tests
With the gruelling South Africa series over, Australia shifts their focus towards the red-ball series at home against New Zealand. The two teams will play a 4-match series, and the Aussies will aim to beat the Kiwis in order to strengthen their position in the WTC table.
Ahead of the matches, McDonald revealed that Smith is in the scheme of things for the New Zealand Tests, and the plan is to play him against the Kiwis.
"So yes, we are planning for him to play against New Zealand, Test one in Perth.
"I think first and foremost, it's understanding what's going on with the neck issue … What do we need to do to make sure it doesn't happen again and give him the best preparation that we possibly can?
The Australian team does need Smith’s services back for the New Zealand Tests as the side lacks a leader in the batting order in his absence. Moreover, he boasts a strong record against New Zealand in red-ball cricket.
