Former Australian captain Michael Clarke expressed confidence in Steve Smith’s potential to succeed as Australia’s opener in Test cricket. Michael Clarke emphasized that Steve Smith could become the best Test opener within a year if he was given the opportunity.
Following the retirement of David Warner, Cricket Australia is considering Cameron Bancroft, Matt Renshaw and Marcus Harris as possible successors for the opener’s role. The team management is also exploring several options, including all-rounder Cameron Green.
Australia’s selectors are expected to meet soon to finalize the squad for the upcoming first Test against the West Indies. The Pat Cummins-led team will compete in a two-match series, with the first Test scheduled to take place in Adelaide from January 17.
Steve Smith will be number one opener in 12 months – Michael Clarke
Speaking on ESPN’s “Around the Wicket” podcast, Michael Clarke mentioned that Steve Smith could hit major milestones as an opener, claiming he could surpass Brian Lara’s record for highest individual score in the format.
“If he wants to open the batting and is given the opportunity, within 12 months he will be the number one Test opener. He is a good player. Technically, he’s good enough. He passes the ball well, he has great eyes and beautiful hands. Yes, he might steal some from time to time or he might be LBW. Tell me someone not to do it,” Clarke said.
“It could be that challenge you are looking for. He doesn’t want to wait. He doesn’t want Warner or Khawaja to earn 100 or Marnus to earn double hundred. He wants to win double a hundred. So if he opens batting, he will be the best opener in 12 months. Don’t be surprised if he breaks Brian Lara’s 400m record because he is very good and now he has all day,” Clarke added.
“He will be the number one Test opener in 12 months!”
“Don’t be surprised if he breaks Brian Lara’s 400 record because he’s that good!” @MClarke23 with big predictions if @stevesmith49 replaces Warner as opener.#AroundTheWicket @ESPNAusNZ @ESPNcricinfo pic.twitter.com/ra8r1OCm8t
— Neroli Meadows (@Neroli_Meadows) January 8, 2024
For more than two decades, Brian Lara’s undefeated 400 has remained intact. The former West Indies captain achieved this feat by surpassing Matthew Hayden’s record during the fourth Test against England at St. John’s, regaining the top spot for the second time.
I’m actually happy to make it to the top – Steve Smith
Speaking to ABC Radio after the third day of the Sydney Test against Pakistan, Steve Smith expressed his willingness to open for Australia, stating that he would discuss the possibility with the selectors, head coach and captain Pat Cummins.
“I’m really happy to reach the top. I’m quite interested if that’s what they want to do. I’m sure the selectors and ‘Ron’ (coach Andrew McDonad) and Patty (captain Pat Cummins) will chat after this game, but I’m certainly interested. Sure,” Smith.
Steve Smith has never opened the innings throughout his Test career. However, this adjustment creates the opportunity for Australia to include both Mitchell Marsh and Cameron Green in the XI. Cameron Green bats at number 4 for Western Australia in domestic cricket.
Also read: AUS vs PAK: ‘Steve Smith seems to be the favorite…’ – Marnus Labuschagne on replacing David Warner
