Australia were forced into a late change ahead of the Adelaide Test after senior batter Steve Smith was ruled out just before the match. The hosts had already announced their playing XI a day earlier, with Usman Khawaja left out for the third straight Test against England. However, an unexpected health issue for Smith changed Australia’s plans at the last moment.
Khawaja, who had been dropped after scoring just two runs in one innings earlier in the Ashes series, now finds himself back in the XI under dramatic circumstances. Once seen as nearing the end of his international career, the left-hander has been given a fresh opportunity to revive his Test future.
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Smith’s Absence Forces Last-Minute Change
Steve Smith was originally named in Australia’s playing eleven for the Adelaide Test and was expected to play a key role in the middle order. However, his sudden illness forced the team management to rethink their plans on match-eve. With Smith unavailable, Australia needed an experienced replacement, and Khawaja emerged as the only realistic option in the squad.
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As a result, Khawaja was drafted into the playing XI and slotted in at number four, a crucial position usually occupied by Smith. The decision underlined Australia’s reliance on experience, especially in a high-pressure Ashes contest.
Why Steve Smith Is Not Playing?
Cricket Australia later clarified the reason behind Smith’s absence. According to the official statement, Smith had been unwell for the past few days and was under close medical supervision. While there was initial hope that he would recover in time for the Adelaide Test, his condition did not improve sufficiently.
With player welfare in mind, the team management decided to rest Smith rather than risk aggravating his health issues. Cricket Australia confirmed that the decision was precautionary and taken after medical advice.
Khawaja’s Second Chance in the Ashes
Usman Khawaja’s recall comes after a tough phase in his career. He featured in the first Test of the ongoing Ashes series but managed just two runs in one innings, which led to his omission from the next two matches. At that stage, his Test future appeared uncertain.
Now batting at number four in Adelaide, Khawaja will be eager to make the most of this unexpected opportunity. A strong performance could not only justify his selection but also put him back in contention for the remaining Tests.
Smith Set to Return for Boxing Day Test
Cricket Australia has eased concerns by confirming that Steve Smith is expected to be available for the fourth Test of the Ashes, the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. The medical team believes that rest will allow Smith to fully recover in time for the crucial match.
Pat Cummins Return As Captain
Australia's test captain made a return after injury for the 3rd test at adelaide. Cummins’ return has further strengthen Australia’s leadership and bowling attack as the Ashes series moves into a decisive phase.
Ashes 2025-26: Australia vs England 3rd Test Playing XI
Australia Playing XI:
Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Usman Khawaja, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Josh Inglis, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland
England Playing XI:
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue