Australia are staring down the barrel of a rare global final defeat—and possibly facing the long-term absence of one of their greatest ever players. Steven Smith’s compound dislocation of his right little finger during Day 3 of the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s has cast a cloud over both their immediate hopes in this match and their upcoming tour of the West Indies. 🩹 The Injury: What happened: Smith was stationed unusually close at first slip—wearing a helmet due to the lack of carry—when Temba Bavuma edged a ball from Mitchell Starc. Smith couldn't hold on to the tough chance, and in the process, suffered a compound dislocation of his little finger. Immediate aftermath: Smith was visibly in pain and left the field even before the physios could reach him. He was later taken to hospital for X-rays and further treatment. He did not return to the field for the rest of the day. Significance of the moment: Had the catch been taken, South Africa would have been 76 for 3, chasing 282. Instead, Bavuma went on to end the day unbeaten on 65, fighting heroically with a hamstring injury. That missed opportunity now looms as the defining turning point of the final. 🧮 What Smith’s Absence Could Mean: Over 10,000 Test runs at risk: Smith is Australia’s second-highest run-getter in Tests behind Ricky Ponting and remains the lynchpin of the middle order. Upcoming Tests: West Indies tour begins June 25 in Barbados. His availability is uncertain, with assessment ongoing. Even if cleared, recovery from a dislocated and potentially fractured finger often takes multiple weeks, especially for batters who rely heavily on grip and touch. Replacement headaches: Cameron Green could be elevated to No. 4. Matt Renshaw or Peter Handscomb might be considered for a call-up. Long-term, this may accelerate succession planning for the post-Smith era. 📉 Australia’s WTC Final Dilemma: South Africa need just 69 runs with 8 wickets in hand going into Day 4. Australia, who have lost only one ICC final since 1996 (T20 WC 2010), are on the verge of surrendering the mace. Assistant coach Daniel Vettori admitted the challenge was enormous: "Eight for 70 is incredibly tricky. Conditions would have to go our way." ⚠️ Final Word: This Test may mark two significant endings for Australia: Their WTC reign, slipping away in the face of a spirited South African fourth-innings chase. And potentially, the start of the post-Smith era, if the injury proves long-term or disruptive to his batting rhythm. Saturday at Lord’s could prove a defining day—not just for the WTC final, but for the next chapter of Australian Test cricket.