After claiming a commanding 159-run win in the first Test in Barbados, thanks to aggressive bowling and late middle-order solidity, Australia are preparing to clash with the West Indies in the second Test, scheduled to begin on Thursday in Grenada. Australia have the chance to claim a 2–0 series lead as they take on the West Indies at Grenada’s National Stadium. This is Australia’s maiden outing in Grenada, as they have never played a Test at Grenada's National Stadium
For the West Indies, it is an opportunity to level the series 1-1. The home side will seek redemption after missing out at Barbados, where, despite early promise, they lost the game. They would want to address their batting issues, which became the main reason behind their defeat in the first Test. Only Shai Hope and Roston Chase demonstrated a positive intent, scoring 48 and 44, respectively, in the first innings. West Indies, meanwhile, would expect their batters to produce more runs to pile pressure on high-flying Australia heading into the second game to bounce back in the series.
Australia’s veteran batter Steve Smith makes a high-profile return to the side after sitting out the first Test due to a dislocated right little finger sustained during the World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord's last month. Despite Smith being included in the playing XI, he will not return to his usual fielding position in the slips cordon and will wear a splint to protect his healing finger. Australia have already announced their playing XI, with Josh Inglis being dropped from the side.
Head-to-head
Matches - 121
AUS won - 62
WI won - 33
West Indies probable XI: Kraigg Brathwaite, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Brandon King, Roston Chase (c), Shai Hope (wk), Justin Greaves, Anderson Phillip, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales
Australia XI: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood