Smith Returns! Aussie Squad Locked for 2nd Test vs. West Indies!
Smith Back in the Lineup for Second Test!
Steve Smith is officially back! Australia captain Pat Cummins has confirmed that Smith will resume his position at No. 4 against the West Indies in the second Test in Grenada. Josh Inglis will miss out, making way for Smith's return after recovering from a dislocated finger.
Cummins stated that Smith has successfully completed all recovery milestones. The Australian team is eager to see Smith back in action after his injury during last month's World Test Championship final.
Australia's Confirmed XI:
- Usman Khawaja
- Sam Konstas
- Cameron Green
- Steve Smith
- Travis Head
- Beau Webster
- Alex Carey (wk)
- Pat Cummins (c)
- Mitchell Starc
- Nathan Lyon
- Josh Hazlewood
Inglis's scores of 5 and 12 in the first Test were not enough to secure his spot, marking the only change to the Australian side that secured a 159-run victory in Barbados.
Smith underwent extensive practice sessions, including batting for over 30 minutes and practicing slip catching, demonstrating his readiness for the Test. However, due to the injury, Smith will wear a splint for five weeks and might not field in his usual slip position for fast bowlers.
"He's ready to go, the finger held up well," Cummins said. "He was really happy, particularly batting. Fielding we still potentially need to manage it a little bit..."
All eyes will be on Smith as he makes his return and how Australia performs in the second Test against the West Indies.