Steve Smith was promoted to open the innings after David Warner retired from Test cricket. The veteran wanted to score quick runs, but the move backfired. Smith, who was ruling the format from the number four slot, failed to get going, registering ordinary performances. However, Smith hasn’t admitted that he is unfit to play as an opener.
His teammate Usman Khawaja has broken his silence on the batter, saying Smith is best suited to bat at the number four position.
“He will never say it, but I feel he is made for the number four slot. He is the best test player of my era, and his best spot is number four. It is also in Australia’s best interest. (Marcus) Labuschagne three, Smith four can help us,” Khawaja told Fox Cricket.
Khawaja said the changes in the batting order resulted in low scores in the longest format.
“We should think about the team. When we had David Warner in the Playing XI and Smudge (Steve Smith) batting at four, we scored a lot of runs. With Smith moving to open the innings, I think our scoring charts have taken a hit,” he added.
Smith has hit just one fifty as an opener in Test cricket. He averages 28.50 in the position, compared to his 61.51 at the no.4 spot.
Travis Head is best suited to open the innings for Australia in Tests, says Usman Khawaja
Usman Khwaja is backing Travis Head to open the innings for Australia in Test cricket. Head has been sensational as an opener in white-ball formats.
“It is up to the selectors, but I think Travis Head is best suited for the role. He has been successful as an opener in white-ball formats. I would go with him, but it is not my decision,” he said.
Australia head coach Andrew McDonald said no decision has been made on Smith’s batting slot but admitted that discussions are taking place.
