Massive blow for Australia with key batter out of third Test

Australia has been dealt a significant setback ahead of the third Ashes Test against England, with Steve Smith ruled out due to illness.

Smith had been feeling unwell leading up to the match at the Adelaide Oval. His absence was confirmed on the morning of the game, with Usman Khawaja taking his place in the lineup.

Australian captain Pat Cummins announced Smith's withdrawal after winning the toss and choosing to bat first in Adelaide.

"He (Smith) is feeling unwell and he has headed off home," Cummins stated. "But we are lucky to have someone like Uzzie to come in."

Khawaja will bat in Smith's usual position at No.4, while Travis Head will again open the batting alongside Jake Weatherald, according to Cummins.

Cricket Australia later issued a statement regarding Smith's health, indicating that he is expected to be fit for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.

"Over the past few days he (Smith) has been feeling unwell, with symptoms including nausea and dizziness," the statement read. "He was assessed and monitored closely and was close to being available to play. That said, the reality is a bit more complicated. given the persistence of symptoms, a decision was made not to proceed."

The statement added: "He is being treated for a potential vestibular issue. This is something Steve has experienced intermittently in the past and is being managed accordingly. He is expected to be available for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne."

This means Australia will go into the crucial Adelaide contest with three changes from the side that won the second Test in Brisbane by eight wickets. Nathan Lyon joins Cummins and Khawaja in the playing XI, replacing Michael Neser, Brendan Doggett, and Smith.

England captain Ben Stokes said at the toss that he would also have chosen to bat first in Adelaide. The tourists have made one change to their XI, with Josh Tongue replacing Gus Atkinson.