Smith Poised for Grenada Test Return as Australia Seeks Top-Order Stability

Smith Set to Bolster Australia for Grenada Test

Steve Smith, the experienced Australian batter, is likely to feature in the second Test against the West Indies in Grenada, commencing on July 3rd. This follows Australia's convincing victory in the first Test in Barbados within three days.

Steve Smith sidelined for the first Test due to a finger injury sustained during the WTC final © Getty

Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, confirmed that Smith has resumed batting practice after recovering from a dislocated finger injury sustained during the World Test Championship Final. Smith returned to his home in New York after the final to undergo rehabilitation, which caused him to miss the first Test match against West Indies.

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 inclusion of Smith could address the struggles faced by Australia's top order in the first Test, particularly following the omission of Marnus Labuschagne. Despite winning, Australia were precariously placed at 22/3 in the first innings and 65/4 in the second. Cummins, however, has expressed his confidence in the younger batsmen.

"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 upcoming match will mark the first-ever Test played in Grenada.