Still recovering from a recent finger injury, Steve Smith marked a strong return to form with a vital 43rd Test half-century, guiding Australia out of early trouble on Day 3 of the second Test against the West Indies in Grenada.

Coming to the crease with Australia reeling at 2/12 and under pressure after a first-innings collapse, Smith showcased his trademark composure and class to remain firm in testing conditions. His unbeaten 70 at tea – eventually ending on 71 – was central to Australia’s push for a defendable total, helping the tourists reach 192/6 and stretch their lead to 225 runs.

Smith, who was dismissed for just 3 in the first innings, looked far more settled on his second outing. Despite a brief lbw scare just before lunch, he weathered the West Indies’ attack with poise, striking seven boundaries and a six in his 119-ball knock. His 93-run stand with Cameron Green proved to be the cornerstone of Australia’s innings.

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Smith stands tall as Australia recover from shaky start in Grenada

Green, batting at No. 3 once again, made a patient 52 off 123 deliveries before misjudging a Shamar Joseph delivery and chopping it onto his stumps. It was a disappointing end for the young all-rounder, who had batted with maturity during the rain-hit morning session.

Earlier, nightwatchman Nathan Lyon did his job admirably, lasting close to two hours and frustrating the West Indies with a gritty 8 off 33 balls. Lyon’s efforts helped provide stability and allowed Green and Smith to consolidate.

Travis Head (31*) and Alex Carey (11*) continued the positive momentum after Smith’s dismissal to push the lead past 220, setting up Australia for a potential series-clinching win. The visitors hold a 1-0 lead in the three-match series after a convincing win in the first Test at Barbados.

While questions remain over the form of openers Usman Khawaja and debutant Sam Konstas, who both fell cheaply again, Smith’s return to form will come as a massive boost for Pat Cummins’ side as they eye victory at the unfamiliar National Stadium in St George’s.

Australia have officially named their playing XI for the second Test against the West Indies, and the big headline is the return of Steve Smith. The senior batter is fit again and slots straight back into the middle order, adding strength and stability. With the series on the line, Smith’s experience and class will be crucial as the Aussies look to seal a 2-0 win.

Pat Cummins continues to lead a confident and settled squad that dominated the first Test. Smith’s inclusion is the only change, replacing Matt Renshaw. The bowling quartet of Starc, Hazlewood, Lyon and Green remains in situ a sign that the Aussies believe their well-oiled attack will deliver once more.

West Indies will want to recover after a difficult first encounter, they will need more commitment from their batsmen. Their inexperienced squad looked promising, particularly with the ball, but they will really be tested for character and discipline taking on a full-strength Australian team with Smith returning.

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THE DECIDER: Australia at Full Strength, West Indies Playing for Pride

Australia will be looking for a thumping win, and with World Test Championship points to play for, they will be eager to push home the advantage. The presence of Steve Smith will bolster their batting and also give them a psychological advantage. Home conditions, momentum and squad depth all suggest an Aussie edge. . Their bowlers have been relentless, and if they strike early again, it could be another long outing for the visitors.

The Windies, on the other hand, must bat with greater patience and grit. Their top order needs to absorb pressure and spend time at the crease to set a platform. If they can put up a fight in the first innings, they’ll at least give themselves a shot. But unless they lift across all departments, it’s Australia’s game to lose.

Australia XI:
Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.

Steve Smith has returned to the Australian squad for the Test opener against the West Indies  and that is big news all by itself. Having sat out the series opener because of a slight niggle, Smith has resumed practice and, though he is not a shoo-in for the playing XI, he is already having an effect on the mood in the camp.

The final call on whether Smith plays will come down to his fitness over the next couple of days. The medical team is monitoring him closely, and the signs so far are encouraging. Given that Australia won the first Test comfortably, there’s no desperate rush but having someone like Smith available is always a big advantage, especially when you’re trying to close out a series.

If he does play, Smith will likely slot back into his usual No. 4 spot  a role he’s made his own over the years. He brings calm, control, and the kind of experience that can’t be taught. But if the team decides to play it safe and give him more time, the younger batters who stepped up in the first Test might just get another chance to prove themselves.

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Smith’s Return Brings Options and Experience

Even if he doesn't take the field, just having Steve Smith back in the dressing room is a boost. His presence, his game awareness, and the way he talks younger players through situations can be just as valuable off the pitch as on it. With more big series coming up later this year, Australia will want to ease him back smartly not just for this match, but for the long run.

For now, it’s a wait-and-watch. But one thing’s for sure when Steve Smith is around, Australia’s batting always feels a little more complete. Whether he plays or not, his return is a welcome sight for fans and teammates alike.

Australia has made dramatic changes to their Test team for the forthcoming West Indies series, with two of their most seasoned batters missing the first match. Veteran Steve Smith has been sidelined for the opening Test with a finger injury, while Marnus Labuschagne has been dropped following a string of underwhelming performances. These changes come as Australia starts a new cycle of the World Test Championship and sets its sights on reshaping the central group of players.

With Smith out, wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis has been brought in to replace him. Inglis, who made an impression with a century on his Test debut in Sri Lanka, will look to cement his place. In the meantime, the exclusion of Labuschagne follows a period of persistent decline in form, topped by poor performances in the World Test Championship Final. Rising star Sam Konstas, aged only 19, has been chosen as his replacement. Konstas only made headlines recently with a blistering 60 against India, admired for his attacking strokeplay and maturity.

Chief selector George Bailey clarified that the door remains open for Labuschagne, stating, “Marnus at his best can be a really important member of this team … we will continue working with him.” He also mentioned that Smith’s finger injury will be reassessed before the second Test in Grenada. The first Test is set to begin on June 25 in Barbados, followed by matches in Grenada and Trinidad.

Australia’s new Test phase begins in the Caribbean

With several experienced players sidelined, this series offers a fresh start for Australia as they transition towards a younger core. The addition of Konstas and Inglis is a move toward recognizing domestic form and looking toward challenges ahead, including the upcoming Ashes.

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This reshuffled squad brings both uncertainty and potential. Fans will certainly miss the services of stalwarts such as Smith and Labuschagne, but the West Indies tour is an opportunity for the next generation of players to come forward and leave their mark in the longest version of the game.

The injury of Steve Smith doubled the impact on the cricket fans of Australia when the team failed to defend their ICC World Test Championship (WTC) title. The star Australian batter injured his small finger while he was positioned near the batter. Smith was in pain and left the field in tears. Now, the 36-year-old himself provided an update about his injury. 

Then the title decider match between Australia and South Africa was in an intense situation; slightly, the defending team had started to lose their grip over the match. So, they decided to go a little more aggressive so that even a half chance could be converted. 

"I was standing pretty close with the helmet on, and as we saw throughout the game, a lot of nicks went short of first and second slip. The plan was to stand pretty close, and I lost sight of it with the angle that Mitchell Starc was bowling, and it kind of went inside Bavuma's hip." Steve Smith said. 

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Update from Smith 

He further added, “I didn't quite see it until really late, and it kind of dipped on me a little bit late as well. It was tricky; it didn't go in my hand very well, and fortunately, there is no break there, and it just split the skin and dislocated it, which made me feel pretty ill at that stage." 

The incident occurred on day 3, when South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma was looking strong at the crease. According to previously published reports, Steve Smith had suffered a compound dislocation of his right little finger while fielding in the slip cordon during the ICC Men's World Test Championship Final against South Africa at Lord's. He was assessed by Australian team medical staff at the ground and later taken to the hospital for x-rays and further treatment. 

Cricket being the most viewed sport across the world, it pays the best cricketers in the world handsome amounts of money in the form of match fees, endorsements, and league contracts. International cricket boards and the Indian Premier League contribute significantly to the income. Let us have a glance at the world's top 10 highest-paid cricketers until May 2025 based on their total earnings from cricket and endorsements.

1. Virat Kohli (India)

Virat Kohli remains the highest-paid cricketer in the world, bringing in approximately $36.2 million a year. He is an A+ player in the eyes of the BCCI and is very well paid for his cricket-playing ability. To add to this, he has two lucrative IPL contracts and many endorsement deals. Kohli retired from Test cricket in May 2025, leaving him focused on ODIs and the IPL, which still pays a lot of money. In case anyone forgot just how rich Kohli is, he is currently engaged to Bollywood superstar actress Anushka Sharma.

2. MS Dhoni (India)

MS Dhoni may have retired from international cricket, but he is still earning around $30 million each year in IPL and endorsements. As the captain of Chennai Super Kings, Dhoni has important brand value and endorsements, which keep him in the highest tier of earners. It's Dhoni’s intelligence and strategy for the game, especially on how to plan for life after cricket, that continue to earn him significant money.

3. Kane Williamson (New Zealand)

Kane Williamson earns an estimated $28 million annually, with a major portion of his income came from his IPL stint with the Gujarat Titans and consistent earnings from international matches. Known for his calm demeanor and dependable performances across formats, Williamson has become a highly respected figure in the cricketing world. His composed leadership style and consistency make him a fan favorite and a top choice for various brands. Endorsements and sponsorships further boost his income, as companies are drawn to his trustworthy image and widespread appeal. Williamson’s steady presence both on and off the field cements his financial success.

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4. Pat Cummins (Australia)

Pat Cummins makes around $26 million a year, courtesy of his IPL deal with Sunrisers Hyderabad and payments from the Australian Cricket Board. His leadership and bowling skills in Tests and ODIs contribute to his worth. Cummins' recent WTC final preparation is an indicator of his significance to cricket.

5. Joe Root (England)

Joe Root's income amounts to $24 million, backed by his England contract and IPL contracts. His record-breaking Test runs and sponsorships keep him in a strong financial position. Root's inclusion in the 2025 IPL season with Rajasthan Royals contributes to his income.

6. Ben Stokes (England)

Ben Stokes makes approximately $22 million with his all-around abilities and IPL deals. His leadership in Tests and exciting play in limited-overs cricket add to his marketability. Stokes' participation in the 2025 IPL with Punjab Kings is a major revenue stream.

7. Rohit Sharma (India)

Rohit Sharma’s annual income is approximately $20 million, driven by his Mumbai Indians captaincy and BCCI payments. His T20 World Cup success and endorsements boost his earnings. Sharma’s focus on white-ball cricket post-Kohli’s Test retirement keeps him relevant.

8. David Warner (Australia)

David Warner makes around $18 million, with much of it coming from the IPL and international cricket. His attacking batting and popularity in T20 leagues are money-making factors. Warner's announcement of retirement from international cricket in 2024 has not affected his IPL income.

9. Steve Smith (Australia)

Steve Smith, one of the most accomplished cricketers in the modern era, has an estimated income of around \$17 million. This impressive financial standing is largely driven by his stellar performances in Test cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he has consistently showcased his world-class skills. Known for his unorthodox yet highly effective batting technique, Smith has been a cornerstone of Australia's success in the longest format of the game. His reliability and ability to perform under pressure make him a valuable asset both on and off the field. 

10. Jasprit Bumrah (India)

Jasprit Bumrah makes about $16 million, courtesy of his Mumbai Indians IPL contract and BCCI match payments. He is among the highest-paid by virtue of his status as one of the premier fast bowlers and endorsers. Bumrah's ability to perform across all formats secures him among the highest-earning.

Viewers who turned on the channel to see Australia vs. South Africa ICC World Test Championship Final 2025 (WTC Final 2025) might be surprised to see Sam Konstas on the field and Steve Smith out of the ground.

On Day 3 of the 'Ultimate Test' match at Lord's, South Africa was looking comfortable during the final chase. Like in the first innings, South Africa captain Temba Bavuma emerged as the main barrier in front of the destructive Aussie bowling line-up. 

Opener Aiden Markram, already settled on the crease, later joined by Bavuma, has been posing a continuous threat from the defending champion side. Australia had a golden opportunity to dismiss Temba early, but they couldn't succeed, and in the process, Steve Smith managed to injure himself so badly that he had to leave the ground with tears. Sam Konstas immediately came into the field to replace Smith.

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Confirmations from both ICC and Australia 

According to a report published by the International Cricket Council (ICC), "Smith was standing in close at slip with a helmet on when South Africa captain Temba Bavuma edged one into the cordon off pacer Mitchell Starc, and the Australia veteran grassed the chance with Bavuma on just two at the time." 

Later, Cricket Australia confirmed that Steve had dislocated his finger, so for treatment, he was taken to the hospital. "Steve Smith has suffered a compound dislocation of his right little finger while fielding in the slip cordon during the ICC Men's World Test Championship Final against South Africa at Lord's. He was assessed by Australian team medical staff at the ground and taken to hospital for x-rays and further treatment," Cricket Australia confirmed. 

JUST IN: A big injury blow for the Aussies with confirmation that Steve Smith has suffered a compound dislocation of his right little finger #WTC25 pic.twitter.com/9Vu8A8Gb80

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) June 13, 2025

What makes cricket a beautiful game is the respect cricketers show to each other. Steve Smith praised Shubman Gill for being appointed as the new Test captain of Team India, and he believes that Gill will succeed in the role. The star Australian batter praised him for his batting skills as well. 

Team India is currently in the UK, preparing for the upcoming five-match Test series against England. Gill got his appointment as captain of the team after sudden retirements from Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. India will have to prove their class without these two legends, which will definitely be a hard task to accomplish. Gill has a brief experience as a captain, but as a captain in white-ball cricket. Now he will lead the troop with a red ball in hand. 

While Team India is busy with some preparations for the upcoming series, Australia is playing the 'ultimate Test' against South Africa to defend their World Test Championship (WTC) title at Lord's. Smith rescued Australia in the first innings by scoring 66 off 120 balls, and Australia got 212 in the innings. 

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Smith heap praise India's new captain 

In the meantime, the broadcasting partner shared a reaction video on social media platforms, where we can see Steve Smith is making some comments about Shubman Gill, the newly appointed Test format skipper of Team India. 

"Yeah, I mean it's obviously a huge honor for him to be able to captain his country. India is such a rich cricketing country, and yeah, it's a huge honor for him. He's got a good head on his shoulders. He's a quality player. I think for him it is trying to lead from the front with his performances and trying to set the standards there. I think he's done that well in the past; he's going to get better," Steve Smith said in the video. 

Watch the reaction video here

@stevesmith49 and #KagisoRabada applaud @ShubmanGill on being named India’s new Test captain.

Both cricket stars believe Gill has the mindset, talent, and temperament to lead from the front. 👏🇮🇳

Watch #ENGvIND 👉 | 1st Test starts FRI, JUN 20, 2:30 PM on JioHotstar! pic.twitter.com/tS0GWINZKN

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) June 11, 2025

Steve Smith's sublime form continues in red-ball cricket, and his ability to come good in big games enhances his reputation as a fierce competitor. On the opening day of the World Test Championship Final 2025 (WTC) match, the 36-year-old fought fire with fire by countering the likes of Rabada, Jansen, and Ngidi, who were in the midst of a hostile spell. He eventually fought his way through to a well-compiled 66 (112) before succumbing to Aiden Markram in the second session. 

By doing so, Steve Smith etched his name in the record books by becoming the highest run scorer at Lord's in the Test format. Smith went past some of the most iconic legendary figures, including the likes of Garfield Sobers and Don Bradman, to achieve this monumental milestone. He now holds a tally of 591 runs across 10 Test innings at Lord's, the most by any visiting batter from a Test-playing nation. 

See also: WATCH: Marco Jansen amazing reflex catch sees end of Steve Smith's innings in SA vs AUS WTC Final 2025

Most runs by a touring batter at Lord's

Smith reached this milestone by getting to his fifty, on the back of a flourishing boundary through extra cover. This innings contributed to his remarkable record at Lord's, increasing his overall total at the venue to 591 runs. Smith and Webster forged a crucial 79-run stand for the fifth wicket to get Australia out of the woods. After being reduced to 67-4 at Lunch, Smith stood tall by getting to his fifty, which added some degree of stability to the Australian innings. 

Webster, on the other hand, seemed very fidgety at the start but began growing in confidence as the innings progressed. Smith's dismissal brought about a sudden shift in momentum as the South African quicks tore through the lower-middle order to dismantle Australia for 212. In response, Starc, Hazlewood, and Cummins launched a late assault with the ball to dent South Africa's high and reduce them to 43-4 by the end of Day 1.

Australian batting stalwart Steve Smith was left in a state of shock when he was dismissed by South Africa's Aiden Markram during the opening day of the World Test Championship 2025 (WTC) Final at Lord's. Smith previously weathered the storm by countering the thunderbolts from Jansen and Rabada and escorted Australia from a tricky situation after lunch. 

With the game drifting away from them, South Africa made a forced change and brought Aiden Markram on in a bid to help Wiaan Mulder swap ends. With only three Test wickets before the dismissal, Markram hardly posed a threat to the in-form Steve Smith, who had already reached his fifty. But then, something unexpected happened that not only shocked the viewers but also Smith himself. 

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Smith in disbelief after being dismissed by the part-time spinner

During the last ball of the 42nd over, Smith was looking to switch through the gears and received a floated delivery from Markram. He wanted to cash in as the ball seemed to be well within his hitting range and was an ideal length for him to play the drive. But tragedy struck as he was deceived by the flight and the trajectory of the ball. His flashy drive resulted in a thick outside edge, and Jansen juggled the ball at first slip and eventually clung on to it after several attempts. 

Following his dismissal, Smith spoke about his shocking dismissal at the end of the day's play. Upon deep reflection, the 36-year-old commented that very seldom do batters nick the part-time spinners in to be able to do something like in a crunch game was simply beyond belief. 

"You don't nick the part-time off-spinner. I'm still trying to fathom how I've done that".

Steven Smith said, "you don't nick the part time off spinner. I'm still trying to fathom how I've done that". pic.twitter.com/DwAT3IwvSA

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) June 12, 2025

Contrary to the way he was dismissed, Smith stood tall, and his resilient stand with Beau Webster helped Australia set push South Africa on the back foot. Smith emerged as the second-highest run scorer for Australia, adding 66 (112), whereas Webster scored the major chunk of the runs, adding a valiant 72 (92). 

Australia's innings ended at 212, but their bowlers struck back late in the day to leave South Africa reeling at 43-4 at the call of stumps on Day 1.