Usman Khawaja made a late return to Australia’s XI for the third Ashes Test at the Adelaide Oval on Wednesday, December 17, after being omitted from the original squad on the eve of the match.
His inclusion came following the withdrawal of Steve Smith due to illness. Smith, who had been struggling with nausea and dizziness in the lead-up to the Test, was ruled out on match day. Australia captain Pat Cummins confirmed Smith’s absence after winning the toss and opting to bat first.
“He is feeling unwell and has headed home. But we are lucky to have someone like Uzzie come in,” Cummins said. Cricket Australia stated that Smith is being treated for a potential vestibular issue, a condition he has faced intermittently in the past, and is expected to be available for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
Khawaja slotted into his preferred No. 4 position, while Travis Head and Jake Weatherald opened the innings. He walked out in the tenth over after the openers fell cheaply and put together a crucial 61-run partnership with Marnus Labuschagne, helping Australia reach 94/2 at lunch.
Australia XI: Jake Weatherald, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Usman Khawaja, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland
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