Smith Returns as Australia Aim for Series Clinch vs. West Indies; Inglis Out

Steve Smith is set to rejoin the Australian lineup for the second Test against the West Indies in Grenada, providing a significant boost to their batting order as they aim for a series victory.

Steve Smith prepares to bat during a training session.

Smith's return follows his recovery from a dislocated finger sustained during the World Test Championship final last month, which forced him to miss the first Test in Barbados. After successfully completing fitness evaluations, including intense training and fielding drills, he is ready to reclaim his position at No. 4.

"He’s ready to go, the finger held up well," confirmed captain Pat Cummins. "He was really happy, particularly batting."

Josh Inglis will make way for Smith in the playing XI, after scoring 5 and 12 in the opening Test.

While Smith's batting is a major plus, his fielding position will be adjusted. Due to his injury, he is likely to avoid the slip cordon for fast bowlers, potentially fielding at mid-off or fine leg instead. He may still field in the slips for spin bowling.

"He might not be in the slips too often – maybe for spin he’ll be OK," Cummins said. "But you might see him running around a bit more."

The second Test will be played at Grenada's National Stadium, which has hosted only four Tests in the past 23 years and never featured Australia.

Cummins is confident in Smith's ability to adapt to the unfamiliar conditions. "That’s one of his great strengths - he’s scored runs all over the world," he noted. "He seems to work out quickly what needs to be done, especially on unfamiliar surfaces."

For the West Indies, the match marks a special occasion as veteran Kraigg Brathwaite plays his 100th Test, becoming only the 10th Caribbean cricketer to achieve this milestone.

"He’s a modern-day legend," said captain Roston Chase. "He stated early that he wanted to play 100 Tests, and it’s amazing to see him achieve that."

Australia currently leads the two-Test series 1-0 following a 159-run victory in Barbados. They will be looking to secure a clean sweep against the West Indies, who are still deciding on their bowling combination, with Anderson Phillip and Jomel Warrican competing for the final spot.

Australia XI for second Test vs West Indies

Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood