Steve Smith Eyes Grenada Test Return After Injury Layoff

Smith Poised for Return in Grenada Test

Steve Smith, the experienced Australian batter, is in line to rejoin the squad for the second Test against the West Indies in Grenada. This follows Australia's dominant victory in the first Test in Barbados, which concluded in just three days.

Steve Smith sidelined after dislocating his finger in the WTC final. © Getty

Captain Pat Cummins confirmed that Smith has resumed batting practice after recovering from a dislocated finger sustained during the World Test Championship Final. Smith had been in New York for rehabilitation, causing him to miss the first Test match.

Cummins stated, "He's had a few hits over in New York, which I think was with a tennis ball and an incredi-ball. I think his wound is looking good, so the next stage is to come over here and hit some balls in the nets. So we'll know more over the next few days."

The potential return of Smith could provide a significant boost to Australia's top order. Despite their victory, the Australian top order struggled in the first Test without Smith and the absence of Marnus Labuschagne. In the first innings, they were reduced to 22/3, and in the second, they were 65/4. Cummins emphasized the team's commitment to supporting their younger players.

"You saw today how tricky a wicket that was, there weren't too many 50-run partnerships throughout the whole game," Cummins said. "Of course, the top order would like to score some more runs. The challenge of Test cricket, especially for young players, is when you get thrown different conditions, you've got to find a way to be effective. That's the challenge for our young batting group."

The second Test match, marking the first-ever Test held in Grenada, is scheduled to commence on July 3.