Clock ticks on Steve Smith's bid to be fit for New Zealand Tests

Steve Smith is in a race to regain his fitness before the start of New Zealand's tour of Australia 2026-27. Smith underwent scans recently, and the reports revealed a cervical facet joint injury. A statement issued by Cricket Australia has revealed that Smith developed pain on day four of the second Test in Gqeberha.

Both Australia captain Pat Cummins and head coach Andrew McDonald were confident that Smith would pull up well ahead of the third Test in Newlands, Cape Town. However, Smith had "limited range of motion" in the lead-up to the series decider and was eventually ruled out.

"Steve Smith developed neck pain on day four of the second Test in Gqeberha last week," a statement released by Cricket Australia on day two of the Cape Town Test read. "Subsequent MRI imaging confirmed a cervical facet joint injury. Due to this and his limited range of motion, he was unfit to participate in the current Test.

"Steve will continue to receive treatment and rehabilitation, with a full return to availability anticipated for the upcoming home Test series against New Zealand."

Josh Inglis was brought into the playing XI by the Australian team management and the right-hander scored his second Test hundred and played a huge role in getting them a healthy lead.

The former Australia captain has around six weeks to recover before the first Test against New Zealand begins in Perth on December 9. If Smith regains full fitness ahead of schedule, he could potentially return via one or two Sheffield Shield matches for New South Wales, who are scheduled to face South Australia from November 11 and Queensland from November 22.

New Zealand tour of Australia 2026-27