David Warner’s retirement has left open a massive void at the top of the Australian batting order
The Australian team have a major headache as they gear up for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) against India later this year in November-December.
Following the retirement of David Warner, it has left open a massive void at the top of the batting order.
Australia has tried using Steve Smith in that position, but the former captain, widely considered one of the best Test batters of his era, has struggled to match his usual performance when batting at No. 4.
A key discussion leading up to the series from Australia’s point of view has been whether Smith should remain as an opener or return to his traditional middle-order spot.
Echoing on the same lines, 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 in BGT
During the launch of the International Masters League, Watson told the media, as reported by India Today,
“Steve Smith made the call to be able to go and open, and I think he should stay there. Cameron Green came in and batted at No 4 and did a brilliant job. The hundred that he got in New Zealand for something very special. He’s the perfect No 4 candidate now with the future moving forward.”
Notably, Steve Smith has an outstanding average of 61.50, amassing 5,966 runs in 111 innings at the No. 4 position in Test matches, which cements his status as one of the greatest long-format batters of his generation.
In addition to Smith, Australia’s aggressive opener Travis Head is being considered for the opening spot. Head previously opened during the 2023 Test series in India, where he impressed with unbeaten scores of 49 and 90 in tough conditions.
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