Smith Poised for Grenada Test Return as Australia Seeks Batting Boost

Australia's dominant performance in the first Test against the West Indies in Barbados may soon receive an additional boost. Veteran batsman Steve Smith is expected to join the squad in time for the second Test in Grenada.

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

Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, confirmed that Smith has resumed batting practice following the finger dislocation he sustained during the World Test Championship Final. After the final, Smith traveled to New York to continue his rehabilitation, resulting in his absence from 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 potential return of Smith comes after Australia's top order struggled in the first Test. Despite securing a victory, the team was reduced to 22/3 in the first innings and 65/4 in the second.

Cummins acknowledged the challenges faced by the batsmen: "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."

He further emphasized the difficulties faced by young players in adapting to different conditions, stating, "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, a historic event as the first ever Test to be held in Grenada, is scheduled to commence on July 3. The inclusion of Steve Smith could significantly strengthen Australia's batting lineup as they aim to continue their winning momentum.