Smith Poised for Grenada Test Return as Australia Eyes Series Lead

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

Steve Smith sidelined for the first Test due to a finger injury sustained during the WTC final © Getty

Smith had been sidelined after dislocating his finger during the World Test Championship Final, causing him to miss the first Test as he flew to New York for rehabilitation.

Captain Pat Cummins confirmed that Smith has resumed batting practice. "He's had a few hits over in New York, which I think was with a tennis ball and an incredi-ball," Cummins stated after the match. "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 could address concerns about the Australian top order's performance in the first Test. Despite the victory, the top four batsmen struggled, being reduced to 22/3 in the first innings and 65/4 in the second. Marnus Labuschagne was notably dropped for the match.

Cummins, however, expressed confidence in the younger members of the squad. "You saw today how tricky a wicket that was, there weren't too many 50-run partnerships throughout the whole game," Cummins said. "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, which marks the first ever Test match to be held in Grenada, is scheduled to commence on July 3.