Steve Smith Eyes Grenada Test Return After Finger Injury

Steve Smith Poised for Potential Return in Grenada Test

Steve Smith, the experienced Australian batter, is likely to rejoin the squad for the second Test against the West Indies in Grenada, scheduled to begin on July 3rd. This follows Australia's dominant victory in the first Test in Barbados within three days.

Steve Smith missed the opening Test after dislocating a finger during the WTC final © Getty

Smith had been sidelined after dislocating a finger during the World Test Championship Final. He returned to New York for rehabilitation, missing the first Test match against the West Indies.

According to captain Pat Cummins, Smith has resumed batting practice. He said, "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 Steve Smith could provide a significant boost to Australia's batting lineup, which struggled in the first Test despite the win. The top order faltered, being reduced to 22/3 in the first innings and 65/4 in the second. The absence of Smith was noticeable, and his experience could be invaluable in the second Test. Marnus Labuschagne was dropped from the squad.

Cummins acknowledged the batting challenges, stating, "You saw today how tricky a wicket that was, there weren't too many 50-run partnerships throughout the whole game. 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 marks a historic occasion as it will be the first Test match ever played in Grenada.