Viewers who turned on the channel to see Australia vs. South Africa ICC World Test Championship Final 2025 (WTC Final 2025) might be surprised to see Sam Konstas on the field and Steve Smith out of the ground.

On Day 3 of the 'Ultimate Test' match at Lord's, South Africa was looking comfortable during the final chase. Like in the first innings, South Africa captain Temba Bavuma emerged as the main barrier in front of the destructive Aussie bowling line-up. 

Opener Aiden Markram, already settled on the crease, later joined by Bavuma, has been posing a continuous threat from the defending champion side. Australia had a golden opportunity to dismiss Temba early, but they couldn't succeed, and in the process, Steve Smith managed to injure himself so badly that he had to leave the ground with tears. Sam Konstas immediately came into the field to replace Smith.

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Confirmations from both ICC and Australia 

According to a report published by the International Cricket Council (ICC), "Smith was standing in close at slip with a helmet on when South Africa captain Temba Bavuma edged one into the cordon off pacer Mitchell Starc, and the Australia veteran grassed the chance with Bavuma on just two at the time." 

Later, Cricket Australia confirmed that Steve had dislocated his finger, so for treatment, he was taken to the hospital. "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 hospital for x-rays and further treatment," Cricket Australia confirmed. 

JUST IN: A big injury blow for the Aussies with confirmation that Steve Smith has suffered a compound dislocation of his right little finger #WTC25 pic.twitter.com/9Vu8A8Gb80

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) June 13, 2025