Australia’s Smith dislocates finger in WTC final

Australia batter Steve Smith was taken to hospital for an X-ray on a compound dislocation of the little finger on his right hand, sustained on day three of the World Test Championship final.

The 36-year-old suffered the injury when he dropped a catch off the bowling of left-arm quick Mitchell Starc while fielding in the slips during the afternoon session at Lord’s.

Starc, bowling round the wicket, squared up South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma and he edged the ball towards Smith, who was stood a littler closer and wearing a helmet because some deliveries have not carried.

Smith got his hands to the ball but shelled the catch and then immediately left the field in noticeable discomfort.

He was assessed by Cricket Australia’s medical staff and has since left Lord’s for an X-ray and further treatment.

South Africa closed on 213-2, chasing 282 in the fourth innings, to win the WTC final.

Following the conclusion of the World Test Championship, Australia head to the Caribbean for a three-match Test series against West Indies.