The anticipation surrounding Australia’s latest Test opener has reached its conclusion as Steve Smith is poised to step into the role, replacing David Warner in the upcoming Test series against the West Indies.
George Bailey, the chief selector of Cricket Australia, recently shed light on the decision to position Steven Smith as the next Test opener, emphasizing the aim to prolong Smith’s already illustrious red-ball career. Bailey discussed the strategic move following the announcement of the 13-man Test squad slated for the upcoming two-match series against West Indies, commencing on December 17.
The decision to elevate the 34-year-old to the opening slot was primarily driven by the desire to accommodate all-rounder Cameron Green in the playing XI, with Green slated to assume Smith’s former position at number four. Notably, Bailey collaborated with Test captain Pat Cummins and men’s team coach Andrew McDonald in finalizing the batting order. Additionally, the inclusion of Matthew Renshaw, the Queensland opener, as the “extra batter” serves as confirmation of his potential role as the next opener, surpassing competition from Marcus Harris and Cameron Bancroft.
“For all intents and purposes, this is where Steve wants to stay. One of the things I’m really excited about the change is that I think he’s really motivated and energised and excited about the opportunity, and fingers crossed that can provide some longevity in the format. For someone who has achieved as much as he has over such a long period of time across all formats, it’s a challenge or an itch he’d like to scratch and ultimately for us, as a team, it’s something that fits,” Bailey was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.
With Smith’s elevation to the top order, openers like Cameron Bancroft and Marcus Harris find themselves patiently waiting for their chance to break into the Test team. Warner had expressed confidence in Harris as his successor, and Bancroft has showcased excellent form in the Sheffield Shield. Surprisingly, it’s Renshaw who got the nod to fill Warner’s spot in the squad. However, despite being Warner’s replacement, Renshaw is unlikely to secure a spot in the Playing XI; instead, Green is set to be favored for a middle-order role.
Smith has contributed to the Australian cricket team for more than ten years and still has a good time left in him. As he approaches the milestone of 10,000 Test runs, Smith’s new position might lead to him adding more runs and achievements to his record with the national team. Among Australian players, only Ricky Ponting (41) has more Test centuries than Smith (32), and he stands as the fourth-highest run-scorer for the Baggy Greens, having accumulated 9514 runs in 105 Tests.
