Grenada [West Indies], July 3: Star batter Steve Smith has returned to Australia’s playing XI for the second Test against West Indies, set to begin at the National Cricket Stadium from July 3 to 8.
Australia skipper Pat Cummins confirmed that Smith, who has recovered from a finger injury, will replace Josh Inglis in the only change to the side that won the opening Test by 159 runs. Cummins said Smith batted without pain while wearing a splint and is fully fit to play. “The finger held up well. He was really happy, particularly batting. Fielding we might need to manage, so he may not be in the slips for quicks, but could field closer for spin,” Cummins explained, as quoted by ICC.
Cummins added that Smith could spend time fielding at positions like mid-off or fine leg but might soon move closer to the action depending on his comfort.
Meanwhile, the West Indies have yet to finalize their playing XI, with a decision pending on whether to include an extra seamer. Anderson Phillip is in contention to replace spinner and vice-captain Jomel Warrican.
A highlight for the West Indies will be veteran opener Kraigg Brathwaite’s milestone as he becomes just the 10th Caribbean cricketer to reach 100 Test appearances. West Indies skipper Roston Chase praised Brathwaite’s achievement, calling him a “modern-day legend” and recalling that Brathwaite had set the goal of playing 100 Tests early in his career.
“It’s an amazing feat. He’s the third Bajan to do it, and the first since Chris Gayle in 2014. It says a lot for Kraigg’s dedication,” Chase said.
Australia XI for 2nd Test:
Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.
West Indies Squad:
Roston Chase (c), Jomel Warrican (vc), Kevlon Anderson, Kraigg Brathwaite, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Justin Greaves, Shai Hope, Tevin Imlach, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Johann Layne, Mikyle Louis, Anderson Phillip, Jayden Seales.