Australia's Steve Smith Avoids Surgery, Faces Fitness Race for West Indies Tour

Australia's veteran batter Steve Smith suffered a compound dislocation of his right little finger while fielding during the 2025 World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord’s. He avoided surgery after the injury was cleaned, stitched, and placed in a splint, which he will have to wear for up to eight weeks, though the wound itself is expected to heal in around two weeks. Smith's ability to bat with the splint is possible if he can tolerate it, but his fielding, especially in the slips, may be hindered. He faces a race against time to be fit for Australia's upcoming three-Test series against the West Indies starting June 25, as well as missing a scheduled stint with the Washington Freedom in Major League Cricket. The injury complicates Australia's team selection amid struggles from other top-order batters like Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, and Cameron Green. Backup players such as Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis are being considered to fill potential gaps in the lineup for the West Indies tour.