Smith's Return Looms: Cummins Updates on Star Batter's Fitness Ahead of Second Test Against West Indies

Steve Smith Nears Return for Second Test Against West Indies

Australian cricket star Steve Smith is on track to rejoin the national Test squad by Sunday, ahead of the second Test against the West Indies in Grenada. This positive update was shared by captain Pat Cummins following Australia's dominant 159-run victory in the first Test in Barbados.

Steve Smith potentially returning to the Australian Test squad

Smith, who was sidelined due to a dislocated finger sustained during the World Test Championship Final, has been undergoing recovery in New York. His return would significantly bolster Australia's batting lineup, which showed signs of vulnerability in the first Test. The top order struggled, slumping to 22/3 in the first innings and 65/4 in the second.

Captain Pat Cummins shed light on Smith's recovery during the post-match press conference. "He's had a few hits over in New York...I think his wound is looking good, so the next stage is to come over here and hit some balls in the nets. So we'll know more over the next few days," Cummins explained.

Smith's rehabilitation in New York has involved a gradual return to batting practice. The transition from using tennis balls to potentially facing bowlers in the nets represents a major step forward in his recovery process.

The second Test match, set to be played at the National Cricket Stadium in Grenada, holds historical importance as it will be the venue's first-ever Test match. Australia currently leads the two-Test series 1-0 after their convincing win in Barbados.

The Australian batting lineup's struggles in the first Test highlighted Smith's crucial role in stabilizing the batting order. The top order's performance raised concerns about the team's overall batting stability, underscoring the potential impact of Smith's return to the playing XI.

West Indies, after their defeat in the first Test, will be eager to level the series in Grenada. The historic nature of the venue adds an extra layer of significance to the upcoming match, as both teams prepare for this landmark Test.

If confirmed, Smith's return would provide Australia with much-needed batting depth as they aim to secure a series clean sweep. His experience and batting skills could be vital in addressing the top-order concerns that surfaced in the first Test.

The final decision regarding Smith's participation will hinge on his performance in the nets and a medical assessment conducted in the coming days. His progression from controlled batting practice in New York to potentially joining full training sessions with the team will be carefully monitored.

The second Test presents Australia with the opportunity to maintain their winning form in Test cricket. Meanwhile, West Indies will be looking to bounce back and make history at their new Test venue in Grenada. Smith's potential inclusion adds further intrigue to this crucial match in the two-Test series.