Former Australian captain Steve Waugh has recommended a surprising choice to fill the opening spot for Australia in Test matches following David Warner‘s retirement. The 37-year-old left-handed batter, set to conclude his Test career after the Pakistan series, leaves a significant void in the Australian squad.
Waugh, dismissing options like Marcus Harris, Cameron Bancroft, and Matthew Renshaw as short-term solutions, proposes a different approach. He advocates for 24-year-old Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) star Cameron Green to step into the opener role.
Green, known for his all-round abilities, made his Test debut in December 2020 against India and has since played 24 Tests, contributing 1075 runs and claiming 30 wickets.
“I’d like to see him in the squad because he brings a lot to the table. His 10 to 15 good overs provide excellent balance, he excels as a fielder. Although his batting isn’t perfect, he shows promise with a good technique, especially against fast bowling,” he said.
“He’s been batting at six, and considering that you often face the second new ball at six, it reminds me of a Shane Watson-like scenario. I would strongly consider him for the team because I value what he brings. Currently, Mitch Marsh has secured the spot he used to occupy, so that could be the direction I would lean towards,” he added.
As Warner bids farewell to Test cricket after a notable career spanning 109 matches, the Australian selectors face the challenge of identifying a long-term solution for the opening partnership.
Waugh’s unconventional suggestion of Cameron Green brings a fresh perspective to the discussion, highlighting the all-rounder’s potential impact on the team’s dynamics.
