The match begins on Thursday, July 3, at the National Cricket Stadium in Grenada.
Smith missed the series opener in Bridgetown due to a dislocated finger—an injury he picked up during the World Test Championship final against South Africa last month. Now fully recovered, he’s rejoined the squad and is expected to slot back in at No. 4, replacing Josh Inglis.
Smith’s Return Adds Firepower to Australia’s Batting Line-Up
Australia cruised to victory in the first Test, but Smith’s return adds much-needed stability and experience to a top order that faced some challenges in Barbados. With over 10,000 Test runs to his name, the 36-year-old’s presence brings a sense of calm and confidence to the dressing room.
Wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey welcomed Smith’s comeback, saying:
“Anytime you add 10,000 runs back into the line-up, you’re going to be pretty happy with it. It’s been tough at the top of the order, so adding that level of experience is great for the group,” Carey said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
Smith’s numbers against the West Indies are remarkable—he averages an astonishing 124.57 in Tests against them. His inclusion will no doubt pose a bigger challenge for the Caribbean bowlers, who did show some spark against Australia’s top four in the first Test.
Uncertainty Over Smith’s Role in the Slip Cordon
While Smith’s return with the bat is confirmed, his fielding position remains a bit uncertain. He’s long been a reliable figure in the slip cordon, but with his finger still not fully healed, it’s unclear whether he’ll resume that role.
Why Jasprit Bumrah Might Be Rested for the Edgbaston Test Against England
Smith reportedly trained in a baseball facility in New York to speed up his recovery, but fielding in the slips may still be a stretch. As per ESPNcricinfo, Australia are preparing their fielding setup under the assumption that Smith may not be able to take his usual place in the cordon.
With catching proving to be a deciding factor in recent Tests—including key drops that cost India in Headingley and West Indies in Barbados—Australia will be cautious about who fills that critical role.
Smith’s return, regardless of his fielding role, is a timely boost as Australia looks to seal the series in Grenada.
