Smith Targets Second Test Return After NYC Baseball Cage Training to Overcome Finger Injury

Steven Smith is eyeing a return to the field for the second Test against the West Indies, following an unconventional training period in New York.

Smith sidelined for the first Test. © Getty

To accelerate his recovery from a dislocated finger, Smith utilized a baseball batting cage in New York. The unusual training environment allowed him to face tennis balls, soft balls, and eventually cricket balls in a climate similar to that of the Caribbean, effectively testing his hand's readiness.

"Underneath this bridge there was a batting cage," Smith revealed. "It was ideal because it was pretty warm, like 36 degrees Celsius, so it was good to be in the shade. My mate actually told me about it and he was able to throw me a few balls there."

Smith's injury, a compound dislocation of his right little finger, occurred during the World Test Championship final against South Africa. The injury, which required heavy bandaging and restricted movement, forced him to miss the first Test in Barbados. He spent his downtime at his New York apartment.

Now 36, Smith reports that his finger is feeling significantly better, and he anticipates participating fully in training in Grenada.

"Everything felt good... I just got my stitches out and I've got a smaller splint on now, so it'll be easier getting my hand in the glove," Smith explained. "I don't really feel any pain or anything. [It's] just getting used to the splint on and the slight limited movement. It's not too bad, I've got a lot of movement there now, so that feels good. Hitting the ball felt completely fine."

Smith candidly admitted that his time in Barbados was far from enjoyable. "I was honestly just bored here," he said. "I couldn't do anything, I couldn't sweat, and I was sort of stuck in the room doing nothing. I've got the apartment four-and-a-half hours away. Dani was back there, the dogs were there... so I went back to sit in the air conditioning and watch the boys play."

To secure his spot in the second Test, Smith will need to demonstrate his fitness during Tuesday's training session. He is also preparing for potentially unfamiliar fielding positions.

"Fielding some balls in front of the wicket will probably be the strangest thing for me. I don't think I've ever done that in a Test match. Fielding at either mid-on, mid-off or fine leg, a bit different to standing at second or first slip."