AUS vs WI: Steve Smith Poised for Return in Second Test Against West Indies
Australia’s veteran batter Steve Smith is optimistic about making his comeback for the second Test against the West Indies in Grenada, as he recovers from a finger injury sustained during the ICC World Test Championship Final. His return is expected to bolster Australia’s top order as they aim to build on their commanding 159-run victory in the series opener.
Smith, 36, missed the first Test in Barbados due to the injury but has since had stitches removed and is reportedly comfortable batting with a lighter splint. While he won’t be fielding in his regular slip position, the right-hander is confident in his readiness to return to full batting duties.
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Speaking to media after joining the squad in the Caribbean on Sunday, Smith said he felt little discomfort. “For me, it’ll just feel like training as normal. I don’t really feel any pain or anything,” he noted. “It’s just getting used to the splint and the slightly limited movement. Hitting the ball felt completely fine.”
Smith will undergo a full practice session on Tuesday, and if cleared, is expected to reclaim his No.4 spot in the batting lineup when the second Test begins on Thursday. His return will likely result in reserve batter Josh Inglis being dropped, after the latter managed just 5 and 12 in two innings during the first Test.
Inglis wasn’t the only one to face difficulties on a challenging Kensington Oval pitch. Young opener Sam Konstas and No.3 Cameron Green also struggled, falling cheaply in both innings as Australia’s top order labored against the West Indies’ disciplined pace attack.
Despite those setbacks, Smith voiced strong support for his teammates. “These guys are good players. We just need to give them an opportunity. It doesn’t always come around straight away,” he said. “They have some really good talent and I think they have bright futures.”
Due to his injury, Smith will take an unfamiliar role in the field, likely positioned at mid-on, mid-off, or fine leg—well away from his usual slip cordon duties. “Fielding in front of the wicket will probably be the strangest thing for me,” he admitted. “I don’t think I’ve ever done that in a Test match.”
Australia lead the three-match series 1-0, and with Smith’s potential return, they’ll be aiming to clinch the series with another strong performance in Grenada.
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