LONDON — Australian cricket fans will be relieved to know that star batsman Steve Smith will be heading to the Caribbean with the team, despite suffering a dislocated finger. Smith endured a compound dislocation on his right pinkie during the World Test Championship final at Lord’s. Captain Pat Cummins announced his condition on Saturday, confirming that Smith won’t require surgery.
The likelihood of Smith playing in the upcoming three-test series against the West Indies, starting June 25 in Barbados, remains uncertain. “I’d say the first test is unlikely for him, and we’ll have to see how things progress,” Cummins noted. During the final against South Africa, Smith became the highest run-scorer at Lord’s for a non-English player but unfortunately got injured during this crucial match. Positioned at first slip, he was closer to the wickets than normal, and a sharp edge from South Africa’s captain Temba Bavuma hit his finger. This regrettable incident not only left him injured but also resulted in a missed catch. Bavuma, who was on just 2 runs, went on to make 66 in a pivotal partnership with opener Aiden Markram, who managed to score 136 runs.
The prognosis for Smith’s injury is positive; his finger should heal within two weeks, allowing the possibility of his participation based on his ability to play with a splint. He is required to wear the splint for eight weeks, which overlaps with the entire series. Captain Cummins expressed a degree of relief that the series signifies the start of their campaign in the 2025-27 WTC cycle. Following their disappointing loss to South Africa by five wickets in less than four days, this series presents an opportunity for redemption.
Cummins reflected on the necessity of performing strongly both at home and away to reach such finals. “Making these finals usually relies on robust home performances, but you must secure some away victories too,” he explained. “It’s a chance to quickly get back to crucial cricket. The beauty of the World Test Championship is that every series and match feels important.” Despite the team’s ambition to return to the 2027 final, Cummins acknowledged the challenges faced by an aging team, emphasizing the importance of integrating new talent while maintaining competitive strength, especially with an Ashes home series approaching in November. He hinted at possible retirement announcements post that series.
“It feels like the start of a new chapter,” he remarked, “Looking a few years ahead, it’s essential to think about who can help us succeed and make finals. Should we get young players game time now? Or should we stay with the team that brought us here?” The fresh World Test Championship cycle represents a reset.
Regarding the recent final, Cummins had a notable personal performance, securing seven wickets and surpassing 300 career wickets. Nevertheless, he observed that Australia had moments where they could have secured back-to-back WTC titles. Reflecting on their innings, Cummins felt the 74-run first-innings lead was insufficient. “Both teams fought for control throughout,” he said. “Our lead was critical, but there was a chance to bat them out of contention with a much larger score. We failed to build a significant buffer, allowing them back in. It’s disappointing to miss such an opportunity, especially when it was within reach.”