Steve Smith Provides Update on Finger Injury Ahead of Grenada Test vs West Indies

Steve Smith Declares Fitness for Grenada Test After Finger Injury Recovery.

Australia’s Steve Smith has confirmed his recovery from the finger injury that sidelined him during the first Test against the West Indies, expressing confidence in returning for the second Test in Grenada on July 3. Smith dislocated his finger while attempting a catch in the slips during the ICC World Test Championship 2023–25 final against South Africa at Lord’s. He was immediately taken to the hospital, but avoided surgery. Despite the setback, the 36-year-old has made a strong recovery and reported no lingering pain.

“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.” Although Smith has resumed batting comfortably, he may avoid fielding in the slip cordon due to the recent injury. Instead, he could be stationed in positions such as mid-on, mid-off, or fine leg—an unusual change for the seasoned slip fielder.

“Fielding some balls in front of the wicket will probably be the strangest thing for me,” Smith said. “I don’t think I’ve ever done that in a Test match.” Smith missed the first Test in Barbados, which Australia won convincingly by 159 runs, taking a 1–0 lead in the three-match series. If he returns for the second Test, Josh Inglis—who scored 5 and 12 in the series opener—is likely to make way.

Smith’s return would be a major boost for Australia. He has an outstanding record against the West Indies, amassing 872 runs in Tests at an astonishing average of 124.57, including three centuries and three fifties.