Steve Smith (Source: AFP)
Steve Smith is fit and set to play the impending series-deciding third Test for Australia, as per national teammate Alex Carey. The star wicketkeeper-batter recently confirmed Smith’s availability, claiming that the senior pro is 100 percent fit for the match.
It is worth noting that Smith has dealt with several injury concerns in Australia’s ongoing tour of South Africa.
Steve Smith confirmed to play third Test vs South Africa
Champion Australian batter Steve Smith will take on South Africa in their impending series-deciding third Test match, set to be played between October 27 and October 31 at the Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town.
While speaking with SuperSport, Australian wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey confirmed his teammate’s availability, claiming that the legendary batter will start his preparation later today.
He said “Smith is doing well. He’ll start prepping for the third Test today. I think he’s a 100 percent fine.”
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Carey also backed Smith to overcome his recent struggles and come up clutch for Australia in this week’s third Test in Cape Town. The experienced wicketkeeper-batter is hopeful of Smith getting the big runs again, even though he has been impacted with his neck concern.
Alex Carey stated “Looking forward to seeing Steve get out there and play and hopefully score the big runs. He’s had a couple of starts. He’s been impacted a little bit with his neck. But yeah, he’s ready to go.”
Just a few days ago, several doubts were raised over the availability of Steve Smith in the Australian playing XI for the third Test against South Africa. Following Carey’s remarks, it seems like the 37-year-old will indeed turn up for his national side as they eye a redemption Test series win on South African soil.
A look at Steve Smith’s injury-marred South Africa tour so far
In the first Test of the series as played out in Durban earlier this month, Steve Smith was assessed for a concussion after coping a blow on his helmet from South African speedster Anrich Nortje.
He also suffered neck cramps during the second Test, and was forced to bat outside his usual batting positions in both innings in Gqeberha last week.
Moreover, even while fielding in the second Test, the cricketer hurt his fingertips while attempting a catch on Day 3.
Compatible to Alex Carey’s claims, the neck pain and other injuries may well have impact Smith’s batting form a bit, as the legendary top-order batter has managed to aggregate just 83 runs in four innings of the series so far at a dismal average of 20.75.
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