Josh Inglis Shines as Smith Sidelined by Neck Injury

Josh Inglis produced a composed unbeaten innings on Wednesday to make the most of an unexpected chance in the Australian Test side. The opportunity came after Steve Smith was ruled out of the decisive Test against South Africa in Cape Town with a neck injury, and the news also means Smith will miss the home series against New Zealand in December.

Smith’s problems began on the fourth day of the second Test in Gqeberha, when he felt neck pain that failed to settle. Limited movement in his neck meant he was unavailable for the third Test, which began on Tuesday. Later medical tests confirmed the injury and provided a better understanding of how long he would need to recover.

Cricket Australia confirmed that the 37-year-old will not be considered for selection before the upcoming home series and will continue treatment and rehabilitation until then. According to the board’s statement, an MRI scan confirmed a cervical facet joint injury. Combined with his restricted neck movement, the injury meant he was not fit to play in the current match. The board remains hopeful that he will return in full fitness for the New Zealand Tests.

For Inglis, the Test recall came at a crucial time. Australia lost two wickets early on Wednesday, placing pressure on the middle order. Inglis stayed at the crease, finishing unbeaten on 85. His innings lifted the team to 330 for 4 and gave Australia a slender first-innings lead of one run over South Africa.

The knock was Inglis’s first Test since the final match of the previous year’s Ashes series. Teammate Matthew Renshaw spoke highly of his ability to settle quickly and handle challenging situations. He said the batter had done exactly what the side needed in that moment.

Renshaw said, “He is a very talented player, and we have seen him do this in white-ball formats many times. When we went out today, there was a bit of pressure after we lost two wickets quickly. But the way he batted was very positive. It was a classic innings from him.”