Australia expect Steve Smith to bat on day five of the second Test against South Africa at St George's Park, Gqeberha, after neck stiffness troubled him on day four, Cricket Australia reported on 21 October 2026. Coach Andrew McDonald said the vice-captain "will bat tomorrow" after treatment from the physio.
What Was Announced
Smith required medical treatment on his neck after an edge off Kagiso Rabada in Australia's first innings, and twice needed medication on the field. According to Cricket Australia, he had looked in good touch through the first 55 balls of his innings before the problem. He was bowled by Wiaan Mulder for 28 as Australia were all out for 99 in reply to South Africa's 425/9 declared.
When Australia were asked to follow on, Smith did not bat at No.4. He sat with a cushion around his neck to limit its movement, which Cricket Australia said has been an ongoing issue. Australia reached 156/4 at stumps.
"We felt it was best to hopefully get the batting unit through to tomorrow and then hopefully he's better placed," McDonald said. "We've seen the physio working on him, so he'll bat tomorrow. It's not something that will rule him out of the innings, but it was just a little bit more time than we expected on the back of the first innings."
What It Means
Australia trail by 170 runs going into the final day and lead the three-match series 1-0 after winning the first Test by 214 runs. Cricket Australia said there is only a small chance of morning rain, but bad light means the allotted 98 overs are unlikely to be bowled.
The third and final Test is at Newlands, Cape Town, from 27 to 31 October 2026.
"I have great belief and trust in the skill sets in that room," McDonald said. "If that doesn't unfold, we'll go to Cape Town and we'll reload. We'll go again."
Source: Cricket Australia report.