Smith return locked in as Cummins calls for more proactive batting approach

Sydney Morning Herald

6 days ago

St George's: Test captain Pat Cummins has called on Australia's batters to adapt faster and play more proactively in the second Test against the West Indies, as Steve Smith makes his return to the XI.
On the eve of the match in Grenada, Cummins confirmed what had always been anticipated – Smith will slot back in at No.4, with Josh Inglis omitted after scores of 5 and 12 in the first Test. Otherwise, Australia will field an unchanged XI.
Inglis had an opportunity to secure his place with a big performance in Barbados, potentially at the expense of Cameron Green, but couldn't capitalise in Australia's 159-run win.
Smith, who suffered a finger injury in the World Test Championship final at Lord's, trained again without issue on Wednesday and has been given the green light to return.
Cummins said he would make sure Smith isn't in the firing line in the field.
'He was really happy, particularly batting. He seemed fine and he's ready to go. The finger held up well,' Cummins said. 'Fielding he potentially needs to manage, so he might not be in the slips too often. Maybe for the spin he'll be OK. For the quicks he might need to wait another week. You might see him running around a bit.'
Although Australia wrapped up victory inside three days in Barbados, the batting group knows it has more to give.
The skipper wants to see his side put the pressure back on the West Indies quicks – Jayden Seales, Shamar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph – on what is expected to be a more batter-friendly surface.