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Steve Smith expected to return for New Zealand Tests as Andrew McDonald breaks silence on injury concern

Australian coach Andrew McDonald expects Steve Smith to be fit for the opening Test against New Zealand in Perth following the veteran's recent neck injury. Smith was forced to withdraw from the final match against South Africa at Newlands, where the hosts claimed a 176-run win to take the series 2-1 and surpass Australia in the World Test Championship rankings.

Australia struggled in the chase, falling for 111 runs on the final day. Captain Pat Cummins expressed disappointment regarding the absence of his vice-captain, noting that the team gave the batter every opportunity to recover before the decision was made.

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