Steve Smith Returns for Grenada Test, But Won’t Field in Slips Due to Finger Injury

Steve Smith is all but confirmed to return for Australia's second Test against the West Indies in Grenada, bolstering the team’s top order after missing the series opener due to a dislocated finger.

 Having recently completed a full training session, Smith is expected to slot back in at No. 4, replacing Josh Inglis, who managed just 5 and 12 in Barbados.

Smith injured his right little finger during the World Test Championship final, narrowly avoiding surgery. He began rehabilitation in New York, using a baseball batting cage to regain rhythm. “By the second session, I was facing hard balls,” Smith shared. “It feels like normal training now. I’ve got good range back and I’m hitting the ball well.”

While Smith’s batting appears unaffected, fielding remains a concern. He will wear a thinner splint for about six more weeks and won’t take up his usual position in the slips. “Fielding in front of the wicket will probably be the strangest thing. I might be at mid-on, mid-off, or fine leg,” he said.

Australia has adjusted its cordon accordingly. Beau Webster stayed at second slip during training, while Sam Konstas, who fielded at short leg in the first Test, moved into third. Usman Khawaja retained his place at first slip. Notably, Inglis did not participate in slip fielding drills, signaling his likely omission from the XI.

Smith brings more than just experience—he carries a phenomenal record against the West Indies, averaging 124.57 in Tests, including an unbeaten 200 in Perth and 199 in Jamaica. His return is expected to stabilize a top order that struggled on a challenging Barbados pitch.

Teammates welcomed Smith’s return. “He’s excited to get back in. Adding that experience is good for the group,” Alex Carey said. Smith himself backed young batters Sam Konstas and Cameron Green, urging patience. “They just need time and opportunity. My first Test hundred came in my 12th match,” he reflected.

West Indies coach Daren Sammy acknowledged Smith’s impact: “He poses a different challenge. Australia is still strong, but when we applied pressure, we got 20 wickets.”

The Grenada pitch is expected to be flatter than the Barbados surface, offering a different challenge. As both sides prepare, all eyes will be on Smith, back with the bat, but a spectator in the slips.