Australias fit-again Smith set to play second test v Windies

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FILE PHOTO: Cricket - 2025 ICC World Test Championship Final - South Africa v Australia - Lords Cricket Ground, London, Britain - June 11, 2025 Australias Steve Smith celebrates after reaching his half century Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Boyers/File Photo

REUTERS

Australia are set to be reinforced by Steve Smiths return to their top order but may miss his reassuring presence in the slip cordon in the second test against West Indies in Grenada this week.

Smith missed Australias victory in the series opener in Bridgetown with a dislocated finger in his right hand, an injury suffered during the World Test Championship final against South Africa last month.

The 36-year-old has reunited with the squad at the National Cricket Stadium and is likely to replace Josh Inglis, who managed five and 12 batting at number four in Bridgetown, in the second test beginning on Thursday.

Anytime you add 10,000 runs back into the line-up, youre going to be pretty happy with it, Australia wicketkeeper Alex Carey said of Smiths impending return after their training on Tuesday.

He seems pretty confident, so hes excited to get back in.

Its been tough at the top of the order, so to add a little bit more experience is good for the group, but I think theyve (been) doing a pretty good job as well.

Australia were all out for 180 in the first innings in the opening test and were 65-4 in