Star Australian batter Steve Smith suffered a finger injury during a practice session in the nets when a throwdown from Marnus Labuschagne struck his right hand.
The team physio was called immediately, and after a quick evaluation, Smith was advised to leave the session. While Cricket Australia has not reported any serious injury, Smith’s exit is believed to be precautionary.
Earlier in the day, Labuschagne also had a minor injury scare. In a video, the 30-year-old was seen briefly sitting on the ground after being hit during practice.
However, he was able to resume training shortly afterward, showing no significant discomfort.
Australia, already under pressure after a crushing 295-run defeat to India in the first Test in Perth, face mounting challenges. Despite their optimism coming into the five-match series—fueled by India’s recent 3-0 home defeat to New Zealand—the team’s batting lineup struggled.
Both Smith and Labuschagne failed to deliver in Perth, with Australia bowled out for just 104 in their first innings. Travis Head shone in the second innings with a brisk 89, but the top order’s lack of contributions remains a critical concern.
Adding to their woes, pacer Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the second Test in Adelaide due to a low-grade left-side injury. Australia has called up Sean Abbott and Brendan Doggett as potential replacements.
Without stronger performances from the top order, the hosts will find it difficult to bounce back in the series against a confident Indian side.