Smith set to miss first West Indies test with finger injury

LONDON: Australia will be without veteran batter Steve Smith for the opening Test of their three-match series against the West Indies later this month, with the possibility of him missing the entire tour due to a finger injury. Captain Pat Cummins confirmed the news following Australia’s unexpected five-wicket loss to South Africa in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s.

Smith sustained a compound dislocation to his right little finger while fielding on Day 3 of the final. The 36-year-old was taken to hospital for x-rays but fortunately avoided surgery. However, recovery is expected to take time.

“I’d say first Test maybe unlikely, and then go from there, but it’s a bit early to tell,” Cummins said.

The injury occurred as Smith stood unusually close to the stumps and dropped a crucial catch of South African skipper Temba Bavuma, who went on to score 66 — a key knock in South Africa’s victory.

Australia’s tour of the Caribbean begins in Bridgetown, Barbados from June 25–29, with the remaining Tests scheduled for Grenada and Jamaica. Smith’s absence will be a significant blow to the Australian batting lineup as they look to bounce back from their recent defeat.