Smith Eyes Grenada Test Return After Injury Layoff

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, commencing on July 3rd. This follows Australia's convincing victory in the first Test in Barbados within three days.

Steve Smith sidelined for the opening 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 suffered during the World Test Championship Final. Smith had been in New York for rehabilitation, which caused him to miss the first Test match.

Cummins stated, "He's had a few hits over in New York... 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 absence of Smith and Marnus Labuschagne (dropped) exposed vulnerabilities in Australia's top order during the first Test, despite their ultimate win. They were precariously placed at 22/3 in the first innings and 65/4 in the second. Cummins, however, expressed confidence in the younger batters.

"You saw today how tricky a wicket that was, there weren't too many 50-run partnerships throughout the whole game," Cummins commented. "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 Grenada Test will mark the first ever Test match played at the venue.