Steve Smith Fit for Grenada Test After Finger Injury Comeback.
Australia’s veteran batter Steve Smith has confirmed his fitness ahead of the second Test against the West Indies in Grenada on July 3, following his recovery from a finger injury that ruled him out of the series opener.
Smith dislocated his finger while attempting a slip catch during the ICC World Test Championship 2023–25 final against South Africa at Lord’s. Though he avoided surgery, the injury was severe enough to sideline him for the first Test in Barbados, where Australia secured a 159-run victory.
Now, the 36-year-old says he’s back to full fitness.
“I don’t really feel any pain or anything,” Smith told the ICC. “Just getting used to the splint and the slight limited movement. But it’s not too bad—I’ve got a lot of movement there now, so that feels good. Hitting the ball felt completely fine.”
While his batting is unaffected, Smith is expected to stay away from the slip cordon due to the risk of aggravating the injury. Instead, he may take up positions like mid-on, mid-off, or fine leg.
“Fielding some balls in front of the wicket will probably be the strangest thing for me,” he said. “I don’t think I’ve ever done that in a Test match.”
If Smith returns to the playing XI, Josh Inglis—who managed scores of 5 and 12 in the first Test—could be the one to make way.
Smith’s comeback would be a welcome boost for Australia as they look to seal the series. His record against the West Indies is remarkable: 872 runs at an average of 124.57, including three centuries and three half-centuries.
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