Steve Smith Returns for Second Test Against West Indies as Josh Inglis Dropped
Steve Smith is set to make a remarkable return to Test cricket just 20 days after suffering a severe compound dislocation in his finger.
Smith will slot in at number four in Australia’s lineup for the second Test against the West Indies, which begins at midnight AEST on Friday in Grenada.
Australian captain Pat Cummins confirmed that Smith would replace Josh Inglis, who was dismissed cheaply twice during Australia’s first Test victory last week.
“He’s ready to go — the finger held up well,” Cummins said during a press conference in Grenada on Wednesday. “He was really happy, especially with his batting.”
However, Cummins noted that Smith’s fielding might need to be managed carefully.
“He might not be in the slips much. Maybe against spin he’ll be fine, but for the quicks, he may need a bit more time.”
Smith was forced to miss the remainder of the World Test Championship final at Lord’s last month after injuring his finger during a fielding mishap. Though the injury initially appeared serious, he avoided surgery and instead used a splint while recovering, enabling a quicker return than expected.
The 36-year-old spent time recovering in New York before rejoining the team in the Caribbean.
Australia have never played a Test match at St George’s in Grenada and last visited the venue for an ODI in 2008. They will retain the Frank Worrell Trophy — held since 1995 — if they manage to repeat their dominant 159-run win from the first Test.
Meanwhile, West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph, who troubled the Australian batting order in Bridgetown with a nine-wicket haul, remains a key threat. Joseph previously delivered a match-winning performance at the Gabba in January 2024.
The hosts will also celebrate a significant milestone as veteran opener Kraigg Brathwaite becomes the 10th West Indian cricketer to reach 100 Test matches.
“He’s a modern-day legend and someone I admire — we’ve played together since under-11s,” said West Indies captain Roston Chase.
“He set this goal early in his career, and to see him achieve it after all these years is truly incredible.”
