Steve Smith Aims for Comeback in Second Test Against West Indies

Steve Smith Returns to Training

Australia's key batsman, Steve Smith, is preparing to rejoin the team in Barbados, having taken some practice swings in the nets as he works to demonstrate his fitness for the upcoming second Test against the West Indies.

Absence in First Test

Smith missed the first match of the three-match series, where Australia secured a 159-run victory over the West Indies in just three days. His absence was due to a compound dislocation injury he suffered during the World Test Championship final against South Africa earlier this month.

Captain's Update on Smith's Progress

Australian captain Pat Cummins shared that Smith has resumed batting practice in New York, aiming to prove his readiness for the second Test set to commence on June 3 in Grenada. Cummins noted, "He's had a few hits over in New York, which I think was with a tennis ball and an incredi-ball. 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."

Impact of Smith's Absence

During the first Test at Kensington Oval, Australia struggled without Smith's seasoned presence, finding themselves at 22/3 in the first innings and 65/4 in the second. This match marked the first time since 2018 that Australia played without both Smith and Marnus Labuschagne, who was dropped due to poor form.

Young Players Under Pressure

Replacing Labuschagne was 19-year-old opener Sam Konstas, who had disappointing scores of three and five in his third Test. Additionally, Josh Inglis, batting at number four, managed only five and twelve runs. Cameron Green, making his second appearance at number three, also struggled, scoring three and fifteen.

Support for Young Talent

Despite the lackluster performance from the younger players, Cummins expressed confidence in their abilities, stating, "You saw today how tricky a wicket that was; there weren't too many 50-run partnerships throughout the whole game. The challenge of Test cricket, especially for young players, is that when you get thrown different conditions, you've got to find a way to be effective." He emphasized the importance of learning from their experiences and maintaining confidence in their preparation.