WI vs AUS: Pat Cummins gives big update on Steve Smith’s availability for 2nd Test

Australia's Steve Smith (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

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Australian cricket star Steve Smith is expected to rejoin the national Test squad by Sunday ahead of the second Test against West Indies in Grenada, as confirmed by captain Pat Cummins following Australia's 159-run victory in the first Test at Barbados.Smith, who was sidelined due to a dislocated finger sustained during the World Test Championship Final, has been recovering in New York and his return could strengthen Australia's batting lineup.The Australian team demonstrated vulnerabilities in their batting during the first Test without Smith's presence. The top order struggled significantly, with the team finding themselves at 22/3 in the first innings and 65/4 in the second innings.Captain Pat Cummins provided details about Smith's recovery progress during the post-match press conference. "He's had a few hits over in New York, which I think was with a tennis ball and an incredi-ball. I think his wound is looking good, so the next stage is to come over here and hit some balls in the nets. So we'll know more over the next few days," Cummins stated.Smith's rehabilitation process has been ongoing in New York, where he has been gradually returning to batting practice.The progression from using tennis balls and incredi-balls to potentially facing bowlers in the nets marks a significant step in his recovery.Quiz: Who's that IPL player? The timing of Smith's potential return coincides with Australia's preparation for the second Test match, which will be played at the National Cricket Stadium in Grenada. This venue holds historical significance as it will be hosting its first-ever Test match.Australia currently leads the two-Test series 1-0 following their commanding victory in Barbados. The team's performance in the first Test, while resulting in a win, highlighted the importance of Smith's role in stabilizing the batting order.The Australian batting lineup's struggles without Smith were particularly evident in both innings of the first Test. The top order's collective performance raised concerns about the team's batting stability, emphasizing the value of Smith's potential return to the playing XI.West Indies, having suffered a defeat in the opening Test, will be looking to level the series in Grenada. The historic nature of the venue adds another dimension to the upcoming match, as both teams prepare for this landmark Test.Smith's return, if confirmed, would provide Australia with additional batting strength as they aim to secure a series clean sweep. His experience and batting prowess could prove crucial in addressing the top-order concerns demonstrated in the first Test.The final decision regarding Smith's participation will depend on his performance in the nets and medical assessment in the coming days. His progression from controlled batting practice in New York to potentially joining full training sessions with the team will be closely monitored.The second Test presents an opportunity for Australia to maintain their winning momentum in Test cricket, while West Indies seek to bounce back and create history at their new Test venue in Grenada. Smith's potential inclusion adds another layer of interest to this crucial match in the two-Test series.

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