Josh Hazlewood confirmed on the morning of Day 5 that veteran Steve Smith will take the crease during Australia's second innings in the second Test against South Africa at St George's Park, Gqeberha, despite a neck complaint that kept him off the field on Day 4. Australia resume at a precarious 156 for 4, still needing to bat out the day to save the match.

How the neck issue surfaced

Smith first showed signs of discomfort while batting in Australia's first innings, where he was dismissed for 28 as the visitors imploded for a shocking 99 all out. South Africa, who had posted 425 in their first innings, enforced the follow-on with Australia trailing by 326 runs.

When Australia's second innings got underway, Smith was notably absent. Matt Renshaw was promoted to Smith's customary No. 4 position, while Beau Webster slotted in at No. 5. Smith was spotted in the viewing area resting with a neck cushion. Late on Day 4, Scott Boland was deployed as a nightwatchman as the light faded.

Hazlewood's update on Smith

Speaking ahead of the rain-delayed start to Day 5, Hazlewood offered a reassuring assessment. 'Yeah, I think it was just a sore neck, really. It wasn't like from an incident or anything. I think it's probably just from time in the middle and fielding in the slips, batting, training, all that sort of thing. Different beds and different pillows every second night on tour doesn't help,' the fast bowler said.

Hazlewood, who noted he is 'accustomed to a sore neck from time to time' himself, added: 'He looks better today, I think. He'll obviously bat at some stage. And, yeah, he's the best in the world.'

When pressed on whether Smith would be next in at the fall of a wicket, Hazlewood was candid about the uncertainty: 'Too hard to tell. I think if it's not next it's the one after, I think. So, yeah, we'll see him.'

The match situation

Australia find themselves deep in a rearguard battle. With 156 for 4 on the board and a deficit still looming from the first innings collapse, Smith's availability is critical. His Test average and experience at this level make him arguably the most important batter on the touring side. South Africa will be keen to press their advantage on what could be a decisive final day.

What to watch on Day 5

Rain has already disrupted the start of Day 5, reducing the available overs and giving Australia a potential lifeline. Should the weather relent, Smith's reappearance at the crease will be the defining subplot — a fit and focused Smith could be the difference between Australia surviving and South Africa completing a comprehensive victory to go 2-0 up in the series.