Steve Smith Injured During WTC 2025 Final: Sam Konstas Steps In
Steve Smith's Injury on Day 3 of WTC 2025 Final
On the third day of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 Final held at the iconic Lord's in London, Australian cricketer Steve Smith suffered a finger injury while fielding against South Africa on Friday, June 13th.
During the second ball of the 20th over in the Proteas' second innings, bowler Mitchell Starc delivered a short pitch ball that South African captain Temba Bavuma struck, sending it towards the slip area where Smith was stationed. Unfortunately, Smith dropped the catch and injured his fingers in the process.
Steve Smith appears to have dislocated his finger. 😔
— Anis Sajan (@mrcricketuae) June 13, 2025
He looked in serious pain and has left the field. Fingers crossed it’s not too bad. 🤞#SteveSmith #WTCFinal #AUSvsSA pic.twitter.com/FWFfMIKbGQ
Sam Konstas Takes Over for Smith
According to reports from ESPNcricinfo, it is suspected that Smith may have dislocated his finger, although there has been no official confirmation regarding the severity of his injury. The 36-year-old cricketer was unable to continue and left the field in visible discomfort. Young Australian player Sam Konstas was brought in as a substitute fielder to replace Smith.
Recap of Day 3: WTC 2025 Final - South Africa vs Australia
As the match progressed, South Africa needed 282 runs to clinch victory in the WTC 2025 Final against Australia. Contributions from Alex Carey, who scored 43 runs, and Mitchell Starc, who added 58 runs, propelled Australia to a total of 207 in their second innings. In their pursuit, South Africa lost two early wickets, with Ryan Rickelton scoring 6 and Wiaan Mulder contributing 27 runs. However, the Proteas found themselves in a favorable position thanks to a partnership of 24 runs between Aiden Markram (49) and Temba Bavuma (11). By the tea break on Day 3, South Africa stood at 94/2, with Markram and Bavuma at the crease.