Steve Smith Eyes Grenada Test Return After Injury Layoff

Steve Smith Poised for Potential Return in Grenada Test

Following their decisive victory in the opening Test in Barbados, Australia could receive another significant boost with Steve Smith potentially joining the squad for the second Test match in Grenada. The veteran batter is expected to arrive by Sunday, raising hopes for his inclusion in the crucial fixture.

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

Captain Pat Cummins confirmed that Smith has resumed batting practice after dislocating his finger during the World Test Championship Final. After the final, Smith traveled to New York to continue his rehabilitation, resulting in him missing the first Test against the West Indies.

Cummins commented on Smith's progress, stating, "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 saw Australia's top order struggle in the first Test, despite their eventual victory. In the first innings, they were reduced to 22/3, and in the second innings, the top four were all dismissed with only 65 runs on the board. Cummins, however, emphasized the team's commitment to supporting their young batsmen.

"You saw today how tricky a wicket that was," Cummins noted. "Of course, the top order would like to score some more runs... That's the challenge for our young batting group."

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