WTC Final: Steve Smith dislocates finger on Day 3, likely out of summit clash vs South Africa

India Today

18 hours ago

Australia were dealt with a big blow in their WTC Final bout, after Steve Smith was forced off the field ahead of Tea on Day 3 of the summit clash at Lord's on Friday, June 13. The experienced batter, who is one of the biggest assets for the side when fielding, dislocated his right little-finger, whilst attempting to take a catch at first slip for the wicket of South Africa captain Temba Bavuma.advertisementHaving just come into bat recently, the South African skipper, Bavuma, looked to play the shorter delivery on the leg side but got the top edge. Smith, whilst attempting to take the catch, injured his finger. However, the extent of his injury has not been confirmed yet.AUS vs SA, WTC Final: Updates
While Smith initially left the field along with the physios in order to revcieve necessary treatment, the Australian cricket team confirmed that the experienced 36-year-old had dislocated his right hand's little during the attempt, and was later on sent to the hospital in order to assess the extent of his injury. "Steve Smith has suffered a compound dislocation of his right little finger while fielding in the slip cordon during the ICC Men's World Test Championship Final against South Africa at Lord's," Australia confirmed to ICC.advertisement"He was assessed by Australian team medical staff at the ground and taken to hospital for x-rays and further treatment," the statement read.Despite the defending WTC champions putting up a brilliant fight, led by half-century hero Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazelwood's record 10th wicket stand against the fiery South Africa bowling attack.Smith, in the first innings, showcased his class with the bat and showed why he is known as the 'King of Lord's' after hitting a key 66 off 112 balls, to put Australia in the driver's seat on Day 1.However, Australia suffered a slip on Day 3, with the Proteas batting unit bringing the fight right back at the WTC champions. Aiden Markram looked in good touch with an anchoring fifty, which helped his side recover from the early wicket of Ryan Rickelton.With Temba Bavuma playing the supporting role for Markram, South Africa has regained momentum in this high-value WTC Final, which has all the makings of turning out to be an intense contest, one for the ages.Must Watch