Australia tightened their grip on the second Test against the West Indies as they battled through a rain-affected third day in Grenada, finishing at 221 for 7 at stumps — extending their overall lead to 254 runs with three wickets in hand.

Resuming at a precarious 12 for 2 overnight, the visitors showed grit and determination to wrest back control despite three rain interruptions that restricted play to just 58.3 overs.

Steve Smith anchored the innings with a composed knock of 71, while Cameron Green provided solid support, contributing 52. Travis Head chipped in with a valuable 39, and Alex Carey remains unbeaten on 29, set to resume alongside captain Pat Cummins (4 not out) on day four.

The West Indies bowlers kept pressing throughout the stop-start day. Shamar Joseph finished with 2 for 54, Jayden Seales claimed 2 for 29, and Justin Greaves impressed with his tight lines, conceding just 22 runs for his two wickets.

With scores reading Australia 286 and 221 for 7, and West Indies 253, the Aussies find themselves in a commanding position heading into the fourth day, eyeing a potential series-clinching victory after taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.