Australia cricket team batter Steve Smith is racing against time to be fit for the upcoming Test series against West Indies. The star suffered a compound dislocation on his finger while fielding on Day 2 of the World Test Championship final against South Africa. He was taken to the hospital immediately for X-rays and further assessment of the injury.
Smith avoids surgery
As per ESPNCricinfo, Smith has avoided surgery for his compound dislocation. He was seen at Australia’s dressing room on Day 3 of the WTC final at the Lord’s as South Africa inched closer to their maiden mace. However, with Smith not set to go under the knife, it remains to be seen if he will be fit in time for the series against West Indies.
The report states that the injury could take a fortnight to heal completely and that Smith can bat with the splint (which he will have to wear for 8 weeks) if he can tolerate it. The Aussie was scheduled to have a brief stint with Major League Cricket (MLC) side Washington Freedom after the WTC final. However, that seems highly unlikely following his injury.
Australia will take on West Indies in the 1st Test on June 25. The series will mark the start of a new WTC cycle for Pat Cummins and co.
What happened to Smith?
The incident occurred during the second session when Smith, stationed at first slip, attempted a sharp chance offered by South Africa captain Temba Bavuma off Mitchell Starc.
Bavuma, on just two at the time, top-edged a short delivery, but Smith not only grassed the opportunity but also injured his right little finger in the process.
“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,” Australia confirmed.
