London, June 13, 2025: Australia’s star batter Steve Smith was taken to the hospital after suffering a serious finger injury while fielding on Day 3 of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 Final at Lord’s Cricket Ground on Friday.
The incident occurred in the 20th over of South Africa’s second innings when Mitchell Starc delivered a sharp ball that squared up Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma. The edge flew towards Smith at first slip, where he was stationed in an unusually close position—wearing a helmet—due to several low-carrying edges throughout the match.
Smith attempted to take the catch at chin height, but the ball struck him on the right hand. He winced in pain immediately and quickly left the field, accompanied by team physios.
Cricket Australia later confirmed that Smith had suffered a compound dislocation of his right little finger.
“He was assessed by the Australian team medical staff at the ground and then taken to hospital for X-rays and further treatment,” Cricket Australia said in a statement.
At the time of the incident, South Africa were 130-2, chasing a target of 282 runs for the WTC title. They required 132 more runs with eight wickets in hand.
Aiden Markram remained unbeaten on 61, while Bavuma was on 33, anchoring the chase as tea approached.
Earlier in the day, South Africa lost Ryan Rickelton (6) in the second over. However, Markram and Wiaan Mulder steadied the innings with a 61-run partnership. Mulder contributed a gritty 29 runs before being dismissed by Starc, who claimed his second wicket.
Despite the setback of Smith’s injury, Australia remained in the hunt, but the Proteas looked determined to clinch their first WTC title.
