Smith Targets Test Return After Baseball Cage Rehab in New York

Steven Smith is eyeing a return to the Australian lineup for the second Test against the West Indies, following an unconventional recovery program in New York.

Smith sidelined for the first Test. © Getty

The Australian batsman utilized a baseball batting cage to accelerate his rehabilitation from a dislocated finger. The unusual training method involved hitting tennis balls, soft balls, and eventually cricket balls in a shaded enclosure, simulating the heat and humidity expected in the Caribbean.

"Underneath this bridge there was a batting cage," Smith told reporters. "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 sustained the injury, a compound dislocation of his right little finger, during the World Test Championship final against South Africa. The injury forced him to miss the first Test in Barbados. He spent his time in his New York apartment while recovering.

The 36-year-old expressed optimism about his finger's condition and 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 said. "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 confessed that his time in Barbados was challenging. "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 potential changes in his fielding position.

"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."