WTC Final 2025: Steve Smith taken to hospital after dislocating right little finger

Australia suffered a massive blow on Day 3 of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 as their star batter Steve Smith sustained an injury while attempting a catch, forcing him off the field and was later taken to a hospital for scans.

The injury was sustained in the final session of Day 3 when South Africa captain Temba Bavuma, batting on just two, edged a Mitchell Starc delivery towards the slip cordon. Smith, stationed close-in with a helmet, moved to attempt a catch. However, not only did he drop the catch, which would have dismissed the Proteas skipper cheaply, but he was also in immediate pain, clutching his right hand before walking off the field.

Australian team confirms Steve Smith's injury

After receiving initial treatment from the Australian team's medical staff, Smith did not return for the rest of the day and was later taken to the hospital for scans. Cricket Australia confirmed that the 36-year-old had suffered a dislocation of his right little finger and that he would undergo further medical evaluation.

"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. He was assessed by Australian team medical staff at the ground and taken to the hospital for X-rays and further treatment," the  Cricket Australia statement read.

Markram, Bavuma guide SA towards historic victory over AUS

Read More

Markram, Bavuma guide SA towards historic victory over AUS

Meanwhile, there are heavy chances Smith will not return to the field on Day 4 or possibly even at all for the remainder of the final. Furthermore, after giving the Proteas a target of 282, Australia was looking to strengthen their chances after picking up two early wickets. But Aiden Markram and Bavuma have put them on the brink of a historic win.

Markram’s unbeaten century and a fighting knock from Bavuma, who is suffering from a hamstring injury, saw the Proteas end Day 3 needing just 69 more runs with eight wickets remaining. The pair’s unbeaten 143-run partnership has placed South Africa close to their long-awaited ICC trophy.