Steve Smith faces a race against time to get fit for Australia’s third and final Test against South Africa in Cape Town. The Australian batter has been struggling with a neck problem, and his availability for the series decider remains uncertain.

Smith felt discomfort during the second Test in Gqeberha. He now needs to complete a full net session on Monday to prove that he is ready to play.

However, his short batting session on Sunday raised concerns. Smith faced side-arm deliveries from Michael Di Venuto for just 15 minutes and did not wear his helmet, leaving doubts over his fitness ahead of the final Test.

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Andrew McDonald Gives Update On Steve Smith’s Fitness

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald admitted that Smith would need to make quick progress to be available for the series decider.

“We feel like it’s going to be a pretty steep progression in terms of [whether] he should be available,” McDonald said.

“But if we’re surprised today, you’ll see that play out,” he added.

Australia’s selectors were expected to finalise the playing XI on Monday before the team’s final training session at Newlands.

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Marnus Labuschagne Likely To Retain His Place If Smith Misses Out

According to ESPNcricinfo, Marnus Labuschagne is likely to keep his place in the playing XI if Smith fails to recover in time. Labuschagne has faced questions over his position at No. 3 after struggling to turn promising starts into big scores.

Australia chief selector George Bailey acknowledged the batter’s recent struggles but pointed out that he was still spending time at the crease and contributing to the team.

A decision on Smith’s availability could therefore have a direct impact on Australia’s batting order for the series decider.

Nic Maddinson Released From Australia’s Squad

Australia have released Nic Maddinson and Sam Harper from the squad, allowing both players to return to domestic cricket.

Maddinson will join New South Wales for their Sheffield Shield match, which begins on Friday. Harper will return to Victoria ahead of their fixture against Queensland, scheduled to start on Saturday.

Maddinson’s release comes after a difficult return to Test cricket. He scored 0, 48, 0 and 8 across his four innings in the series.

His departure also opens the door for Matt Renshaw to return to the top of the order alongside Travis Head.

Bailey, however, made it clear that Maddinson’s release does not mean his Test career is over. The selectors will continue to monitor his performances during the Australian home summer and ahead of India’s tour.

Sam Harper Released As Josh Inglis Recovers

Harper was brought into the squad as wicketkeeping cover after Josh Inglis fractured a finger.

However, Inglis has since been cleared to resume wicketkeeping duties if first-choice option Alex Carey encounters any problems. With the additional cover no longer required, Harper has been allowed to return to domestic cricket.

Gerald Coetzee Replaces Anrich Nortje For South Africa

South Africa have made one change to their playing XI for the third Test. Fast bowler Gerald Coetzee will replace Anrich Nortje, who has been ruled out through injury.

South Africa playing XI for third Test

Aiden Markram, Marques Ackerman, David Bedingham, Temba Bavuma, Matthew Breetzke, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Simon Harmer, Gerald Coetzee, Kagiso Rabada.