Will Australia Have Smith Back for the 2nd Test?
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Synopsis
Excitement is brewing as Steven Smith gears up for a potential return in Australia’s second Test against the West Indies in Grenada. After overcoming a serious injury, Smith's participation could significantly impact the team's performance. With head coach Andrew McDonald expressing confidence, fans eagerly await the final decision.
Key Takeaways
- Steven Smith is recovering from a serious injury.
- He has rejoined the squad after practicing in New York.
- Head coach Andrew McDonald is optimistic about Smith's fitness.
- Australia won the first Test by 159 runs.
- The second Test is crucial for the team's success in the new WTC cycle.
Bridgetown, June 29 (NationPress) Steven Smith is set to make a comeback for Australia’s second Test against the West Indies in Grenada, after recovering from a compound dislocation he suffered during the World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord’s.
Smith has spent the last week in New York, where he practiced batting with a tennis ball and an “incredi-ball” (a softer cricket training ball), before rejoining the Australian squad in Barbados on Saturday evening, following their successful three-day victory in the opening Test.
He still needs to complete several medical assessments, with Tuesday’s training session in Grenada being a critical milestone. However, head coach Andrew McDonald is optimistic that Smith will be ready to take his place at No. 4 in the batting lineup, likely leading to Josh Inglis being dropped from the playing XI.
“It’s really about the functionality of the finger rather than any other concerns. There’s no risk to the long-term health of that finger. He’ll come back, and I believe he’ll play. Before the next match, he’ll have a main session two days out, and he’ll also train the day prior to the game. If everything goes well, I expect Steve to bat at No. 4,” McDonald stated.
The Australian head coach emphasized that if Smith returns, he will maintain his batting position at No. 4, despite Cameron Green’s struggles at No. 3.
“We view him as No. 4 for a reason, and we’re settled on that. While he could bat higher if needed, he has excelled at No. 4 over the past 12 months, providing stability to that position. We want to keep him at four and build our strategy around that rather than risking unnecessary changes in the order,” McDonald explained.
Australia triumphed in the opening Test of the three-match series in Barbados by 159 runs, kicking off their new WTC cycle on a high note. The second Test of the series is scheduled to take place in Grenada starting July 3.
Point of View
I believe that Steven Smith's return is not only crucial for Australia but also highlights the resilience and dedication of athletes. His experience and capabilities in the lineup are unmatched, making his presence vital for the team's strategy and morale. We will continue to follow this story closely as it develops.
NationPress
29/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury did Steven Smith sustain?
Steven Smith suffered a compound dislocation during the World Test Championship final against South Africa.
When is the second Test scheduled?
The second Test against the West Indies is scheduled to take place from July 3 in Grenada.
