Steve Smith Returns to Australia Test Squad for Second West Indies Test

Steve Smith is set to return to the Australian Test cricket team for the second Test against the West Indies after recovering from a compound dislocation of his right little finger sustained in the World Test Championship final. During his recovery, Smith stayed in New York, where he found a baseball batting cage under a bridge near his apartment and used it to test his injured finger with tennis balls, soft-core balls, and cricket balls, which boosted his confidence for his upcoming return. Although still wearing a splint, Smith reported no pain while batting and expects to resume training and fielding at positions like mid-on, mid-off, or fine leg, rather than his usual slip position. Smith defended the national batting coach Michael Di Venuto against criticism about Australia's batting performance, emphasizing that the players themselves must execute their skills. His return is expected to replace Josh Inglis in the lineup, with coach Andrew McDonald indicating confidence in Smith's fitness. Smith also expressed support for young players Sam Konstas and Cameron Green, encouraging patience as they find their footing in international cricket.