The Australian team has a major headache as it prepares for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) against India later this year in November-December.

After David Warner’s retirement, he has left a huge void open at the top of the batting order.

Australia have tried to use Steve Smith in that position but the former captain, widely regarded as one of the best Test batsmen of his era, has struggled to match his usual performance when batting at number 4.

A key discussion ahead of the series from Australia’s point of view has been whether Smith should remain as an opener or return to his traditional middle-order role.

In the same vein, former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson supported the idea of ​​Smith continuing as an opener in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).

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Shane Watson backs Steve Smith as opener on BGT

During the launch of the International Teachers League, Watson told the media, as reported by India Today,

“Steve Smith made the decision to be able to go and open, and I think he should stay there. Cameron Green came in and batted at number 4 and did a brilliant job. The hundred he got in New Zealand for something very special. “He is the perfect No. 4 candidate as the future moves forward.”

Notably, Steve Smith has an outstanding average of 61.50, amassing 5,966 runs in 111 innings at No. 4 in Test matches, cementing his status as one of the best long format batsmen of his generation.

In addition to Smith, aggressive Australian opener Travis Head is being considered for the starting spot. Head previously opened during the 2023 Test series in India, where he impressed with unbeaten scores of 49 and 90 in difficult conditions.

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