Grenada [West Indies], July 2: Veteran Australian batter Steve Smith is likely to return to the playing XI for the second Test of the three-match series against the West Indies, part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle.
Set to begin on Thursday at the National Cricket Stadium in Grenada, the second Test could see Smith replace right-hand batter Josh Inglis in Australia’s lineup. Smith showed promising signs at training on Tuesday, batting with minimal discomfort despite nursing an injured finger sustained during the World Test Championship Final against South Africa last month.
Wicketkeeper Alex Carey spoke to the media before the training session, highlighting Smith’s readiness. “He’s a class player. Anytime you add 10,000 runs back into the lineup, you’re going to be pretty happy with it,” Carey said. “He seems confident and excited to get back in. It’s been tough at the top of the order, so adding experience is always good.”
Smith is expected to return to his preferred No.4 position, with Inglis likely to make way as the only change from the side that secured a 159-run victory in the first Test.
Despite the loss in the opening match, the West Indies bowlers posed challenges for the Australian batters, taking all 20 wickets. However, head coach Daren Sammy acknowledged the impact Smith’s return could have. “Steve Smith, if he comes in, poses a different challenge. Australia is strong with or without him, but he’s a quality player,” said Sammy.
Reflecting on the team’s performance, Sammy noted, “We shot ourselves in the foot. You can’t drop seven catches against the world’s No.1 team and expect to compete. Still, there were positives—we went head-to-head with them for the first two days.”
Australia will be looking to clinch the series, while the West Indies aim to bounce back and level the contest in Grenada.