Steve Smith, 36, is ready to play for Australia against the West Indies in Grenada, just 20 days after a severe finger injury at the World Test Championship final. At Lord’s, a ball hit his finger hard, causing a compound dislocation and forcing him to leave the game. Though the injury was serious, Smith chose non-surgical treatment. He spent two days in a London hospital before heading back to New York for intense rehab. Now, he’s set to wear the baggy green again, showing resilience and determination to return to the field swiftly.
Smith’s swift recovery defies usual timelines for such injuries. Normally, medical professionals recommend six to eight weeks of rest and slow return to activities for compound dislocations. However, after splinting and physiotherapy, Smith started light fielding drills in just ten days and progressed to full batting practice this week. This showcases his commitment and the skill of the medical team.
After Australia’s 296-run loss to India in the WTC final, Smith went straight to New York with the team’s physiotherapist. He followed a custom recovery plan focusing on movement, grip strength, and balance exercises, guided by a sports medicine expert. He had five daily sessions targeting finger joints to avoid stiffness. Once fit to travel, Smith joined the team in Barbados on June 29, starting batting practice at 60% intensity in Bridgetown, and ramped up to full-power shots by July 1.
Australia’s head coach, Andrew McDonald, commended Steve Smith’s dedication, stating, “Steve’s commitment is unmatched. He has adhered to every guideline precisely, and his improvement has been remarkable. His return to the team will boost morale.
Smith’s return is nearly certain, pushing Josh Inglis from No. 4 to his usual wicketkeeper-batter spot lower in the order. Inglis’s scores of 5 and 12 in Bridgetown showed a hesitant approach, which Australia can’t afford against the fierce West Indies pace attack. Meanwhile, Sam Konstas, who opened in Barbados and faced challenges against Shamar Joseph’s aggressive bowling, is expected to keep his position. This gives the young opener more time to adjust to international play. Cameron Green, who batted at No. 3 but didn’t capitalize on his starts, is also likely to stay due to his potential as a future key player.
Captain Pat Cummins must decide if he should adjust the batting order to fit Smith while keeping team balance. “We’ll decide after the toss,” Cummins stated. “Steve’s return to the top six shifts the dynamics. His experience is crucial.
Australia’s top fielder, Smith, will be positioned in a less risky spot to protect his recovering finger. Likely areas include mid-off, mid-on, or fine leg, avoiding the dangerous slip positions. Marnus Labuschagne, after scoring a century in Bridgetown, will strengthen the slip cordon with Cameron Green and Usman Khawaja. Positioned at a safer boundary, Smith can still impact the game with his throws and outfield support.
West Indies bowler Shamar Joseph is on fire, taking nine wickets in Bridgetown, marking his third ten-wicket series in just ten Tests. His precise and aggressive bowling was too much for Australia’s batsmen, who struggled with their footwork and decision-making. Partnering with Kemar Roach, who used reverse swing on the rough Bridgetown pitch, the West Indies team highlighted Australia’s technical weaknesses, which Smith hopes to fix.
Jomel Warrican, a spinner, took four wickets in his debut during the Barbados Test, capitalizing on the deteriorating pitch. In Grenada, where the pitch is likely to have unpredictable bounce and turn, Australia might choose an additional fast bowler instead of a third spinner to keep their bowling attack balanced.
Grenada’s National Stadium is known for its fast and bouncy pitch, with increased seam movement under clouds. Daytime temperatures reach 30°C with high humidity, emphasizing the need for fitness and hydration. Pitch curator Gideon Daniel plans a flat center strip to boost scoring, but edges will aid pace bowlers in the morning.
Australia’s support team has tailored training for Grenada’s conditions, using heat simulations and acclimatization runs on grass surfaces to match the terrain’s hardness. Hydration strategies and electrolyte checks will be heightened, especially vital if matches last four days.
Australia scored 298 in the first innings in Bridgetown, led by Labuschagne’s 110 and Head’s 68, but Joseph’s fierce bowling overshadowed their efforts. They collapsed to 179 in the second innings, missing Steve Smith, resulting in a 159-run loss. Despite this, Australia kept the Frank Worrell Trophy, held since 1995, by leading the series. Winning in Grenada, with one Test left, would not only secure the trophy but also boost confidence before the challenging South Africa tour later this year.
Australia’s fast bowlers face scrutiny during consecutive Caribbean Tests. Cummins and Starc endured intense workloads in Barbados. To manage this, Scott Boland might join as an additional seam option. All-rounder Cameron Green’s dual responsibilities challenge his stamina, prompting trainers to implement shorter bowling spells and specific recovery strategies to avert fatigue injuries.
Smith’s return to the batting lineup is being tested through practice matches. However, the team might rest a specialist during the three-day tour match against West Indies A from July 7–9. This strategy aims to enhance match readiness and refine fielding positions.
Pat Cummins (Australia Captain):
Steve’s return is transformative. His expertise will solidify our innings. We’ve prepared diligently for Grenada, aware of the challenging conditions, but we’re prepared.
Alex Carey (Wicketkeeper):
Adding 10,000 Test runs to the lineup is significant. Steve is confident, practicing, and prepared to excel.
Shamar Joseph (West Indies Spearhead):
Australia will bring their best. Early wickets on the Grenada pitch are crucial. I’m eager to bowl to Smith—he’s excellent, but every batsman has weaknesses.
Professor Andrew McDonald (Australia Head Coach):
“Steve’s recovery has been outstanding. The medical and strength teams excelled. Now, it’s about blending him into the team and ensuring he’s at ease on the field and at the crease.
Cricket fans can catch every moment from Grenada’s National Stadium through ABC Sport’s live blog starting at 11:30pm AEST on Thursday, July 3. The coverage will include insights on Smith’s impact on Australia’s batting strategy, live analysis of the West Indies’ bowling, and updates on pitch conditions and weather.
Conclusion
Steve Smith’s quick comeback from a finger injury highlights his resilience and dedication to Australian cricket. His presence in the second Test will bolster the top order and stabilize the batting lineup. Facing a strong West Indies bowling squad on a tough Grenada pitch, Smith’s performance is crucial for Australia to keep the Frank Worrell Trophy and regain momentum for future tours. As team dynamics evolve, fitness is closely watched, and strategies are adjusted to suit local conditions, setting the stage for an exciting Test match. This match could redefine the series and cement Smith’s lasting legacy in Test cricket.
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