Steven Smith sidelined with dislocated finger: Will he return for second Test?

Australia's veteran batsman Steven Smith has been ruled out of the first Test against the West Indies after suffering a compound dislocation to the little finger on his right hand during the World Test Championship final at Lord's.
Smith avoided surgery but must wear a splint for eight weeks, raising doubts about his availability for the opening match at Kensington Oval on June 25. However, selectors remain hopeful he will return for the second Test starting July 3 if the splint does not hinder his batting.

In a significant shake-up, Marnus Labuschagne has been dropped from the Test side for the first time since 2019 due to a dip in form, averaging just 24.7 in his last 16 matches. Selector chair George Bailey acknowledged Labuschagne's struggles but expressed confidence in his future contributions, stating, "Marnus at his best can be a really important member of this team. He understands his output hasn't been at the level we, or he, expects."

To fill the vacancies left by Smith and Labuschagne, Josh Inglis and Sam Konstas have been named in the starting XI. Inglis, who impressed with a century on his Test debut against Sri Lanka earlier this year, is expected to open the batting, while Konstas, who debuted in the Boxing Day Test last year against India, will also get an opportunity.

Bailey added, "We have made the decision to give Josh and Sam the opportunity to replace Steve and Marnus. We are excited to see them get the chance to further their fledgling Test careers!"

The changes mark a notable shift in Australia's lineup ahead of the West Indies series, with selectors aiming to balance experience and emerging talent while managing injury setbacks.

Australia's Steven Smith is sidelined for the first Test against West Indies after dislocating his right little finger at Lord's, wearing a splint for eight weeks but may return for the second Test starting July 3. Marnus Labuschagne was also dropped, replaced by Josh Inglis and Sam Konstas.