Australia’s vice-captain Steve Smith suffered a nasty finger injury on Day 3 of the World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord’s, casting doubt over his availability for the upcoming tour of the West Indies.
The incident occurred when South Africa were on 72 for 2. Fast bowler Mitchell Starc drew an outside edge from Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma, with the ball flying towards Smith at chest height in the slips. Fielding closer than a typical first slip due to the lack of carry, Smith failed to hold onto the sharp chance, giving Bavuma a reprieve on just 2 and denying Starc what would have been his third wicket.
Immediately after the dropped catch, Smith appeared to be in considerable discomfort. He quickly removed his helmet and walked off the field, attended by medical staff. He was later taken to hospital for further assessment and scans.
Smith likely to be ruled out for months
Cricket Australia confirmed the extent of the injury in a statement: “Steve Smith has sustained a compound dislocation to the little finger on his right hand while fielding in the slips during the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord’s. He was treated on the field and subsequently taken for x-rays and additional medical care.”
While Australia are nearing the end of the Test, the injury remains a significant concern ahead of future fixtures.
Meanwhile, Bavuma capitalised on the dropped chance and remained unbeaten on 65 at stumps. Aiden Markram led the scoring with a composed century, staying not out on 102. With eight wickets still in hand, South Africa need just 69 more runs to clinch their first-ever World Test Championship title.
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