Steve Smith Eyes Grenada Test Return After Injury Layoff

Steve Smith Set to Bolster Australia's Lineup for Grenada Test

Following their victory in the opening Test in Barbados, Australia could receive a further boost with the potential return of Steve Smith for the second Test against the West Indies in Grenada. The veteran batsman is expected to join the squad by Sunday.

Steve Smith sidelined after finger injury during WTC final © Getty

Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, confirmed that Smith has resumed batting practice after recovering from a dislocated finger sustained during the World Test Championship Final. After the final, Smith traveled to New York to continue his rehabilitation, which caused him to miss the first Test.

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 absence of Smith and the dropping of Marnus Labuschagne meant that Australia's top order struggled in the first Test, despite the win. They were 22/3 in the first innings and 65/4 in the second. However, Cummins emphasized that the team management would support their young batsmen.

Cummins noted the challenging nature of the wicket, adding, "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 match, which marks the first-ever Test in Grenada, is scheduled to commence on July 3.