Smith shines as Australia stretch lead in Grenada Test
Richard Hookham |
Australia’s batsmen, sparked by recalled talisman Steve Smith, have rallied positively in their quest to construct a solid total to defend in the second Test against West Indies.
With the pressure mounting on their faltering top order having slumped to 2-12 and holding a slim 45-run lead overnight, Smith has stepped up with a swashbuckling unbeaten 70 on a rain-interrupted third day in Grenada.
The 36-year-old, who was dismissed cheaply for three in the first innings just 20 days after returning from a nasty finger dislocation, passed 50 for the 79th time in his Test career to keep Australia in the hunt for a series-clinching victory at St George’s.
Smith combined in an important partnership with Cameron Green, who cracked a 123-ball 52 before playing-on to a Shamar Joseph delivery, leaving the Perth man furious with himself as he looked in decent shape to push on for a big score.
But joining Smith, Travis Head has helped maintained the impressive Australian run rate with 28 not out as the tourists reached 4-175 at tea and a solid 208-run lead.
Earlier, nightwatchman Nathan Lyon did well early on to support Green, eating up valuable overs as the pair sought to blunt the new ball.
Spin-king Lyon had batted an hour and 47 minutes, using up 33 balls, before departing to a catch from John Campbell at third slip off Alzarri Joseph.
His resistance made it easier for Green to settle in the first session and the West Australian looked determined to take on the responsibility of holding the innings.
But it is Smith who has now taken on the mantle with seven fours and a six so far, although he did survive an dicey lbw appeal on the last ball before lunch.
Pat Cummins’ Australia side are looking to claim a series-clinching victory at the National Stadium in St George’s, Greneda, a venue in which they’ve never before played a Test.
AAP
