Neck Injury Update: Steven Smith Targets Shield Comeback This Month

Specialist Consultation: Steven Smith consulted a specialist in New York regarding the neck injury that ruled him out of the final Test against South Africa. Injury Background: He was diagnosed with an injury to his cervical facet joint after feeling pain during the second Test in Gqeberha, which ultimately forced him out of the series decider despite a nerve-block injection.

Smith's neck injury completed a difficult tour of South Africa where he made 83 runs in four innings and also suffered a concussion scare in Durban. In recent days, there have also been the headlines created by Usman Khawaja's autobiography, which has reignited the ball-tampering scandal from 2018.

However, while Smith has consistently stated in recent times that his Test career is a series-by-series prospect, Bailey said he had no indications anything would hasten a retirement call and that he was planning for Smith to be available for next year's India and England tours.

Return Plan: Smith spent his break in New York (where he owns an apartment) and is scheduled to return to Sydney next week. He is on track to play for New South Wales against Queensland in round five of the Sheffield Shield later this month.

Selection Outlook & Future Tours

Long-Term Plans: Chair of selectors George Bailey confirmed there are no indications Smith is considering international retirement, with selectors planning for him to be a key part of upcoming tours to India and England next year.

Managing Flare-Ups: The medical team's focus is on understanding what triggers the joint issue and establishing a quicker remedy to manage it if it recurs.