Ahead of the upcoming 2-match test series between Australia and West Indies In the Land Down Under, middle-order batsman Steve Smith could find himself opening alongside Usman Khawaja as the Australian management is reportedly considering a try.
Steve Smith has constantly shouted his desire to replace David Warner at the top spot after the left-hander retired from Test cricket. Warner last suited up for the Australian whites during Pakistan’s 3-0 win in the Benaud-Qadir Trophy last week.
David Warner scored 57 in his last Test innings and retired from the longer formats (Tests and ODIs) of the game. He will now fight for a place in Australia’s T20 team and has also confirmed his availability for the T20 World Cup in June. Warner has also kept the door open in ODIs in case Australia need him for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan.
But the hottest and most debated topic is who will replace him in the order of testing? The names of Cameron Bancroft, Matt Renshaw, Marcus Harris and Cameron Green have been put forward and number 4 batsman Steve Smith has also put his name forward.
Smith said publicly that he would enjoy opening and playing against the new ball, but head coach Andrew McDonald and captain Pat Cummins did not seem very enthusiastic about this idea when they were first told. However, according to the latest report, Steve Smith’s efforts might have worked as the management is influenced by his ideas and his willingness to help the team.
It is said that Smith could open only if all-rounder Cameron Green joins the team. Green last played a Test match in July during the Ashes and has found it difficult to get back into the team due to improved performances from Mitchell Marsh.
Green has primarily appeared at No. 6 or 7 and could slot in at No. 4 if Steve Smith is paired with Usman Khawaja. In that case, Mitchell Marsh could take the No. 5 spot, while Alex Carey could take the No. 6 spot. There’s no guarantee yet, but voices within the Australian dressing room are hinting at something similar.
Steve Smith could be a good option for Australian selectors to explore
Given the experience that Steve Smith has, the Australian management led by McDonald can give it a try. Smith’s average has improved each time he has been promoted higher up the order and the series against minnows West Indies could serve as a great platform.
The 34-year-old is 486 races away from completing 10,000 tests. He has scored 9514 runs in 105 Tests at an impressive average of 58 and has 32 hundreds and 40 fifties to his name.
