Publicly expressing his keen interest in opening for Australia, Steve Smith aimed to fill the void left by the recently retired David Warner at the top of the order. This aspiration came to fruition shortly after the Sydney New Year’s Test, where Warner bid farewell to his illustrious career. Chief selector George Bailey confirmed Smith’s new role as an opener for the upcoming Test series against the West Indies.
While some voices, including former captain Michael Clarke, endorse this decision, envisioning Smith’s potential to become the best opener and even challenge Brian Lara’s Test score of 400 within a year, not everyone shares the same conviction.
“I nearly vomited. I have got no doubts in my mind that if Cameron Bancroft played for the New South Wales he’d be in the Test side. He’s in his prime”. Says Hughes.
Kim Hughes, who led Australia in 28 Tests from 1979 to 1984 and previously held the record for the youngest Test captain before Smith surpassed it in 2014, isn’t entirely pleased with Cricket Australia’s choice. Hughes questions the wisdom of appointing Smith, with 105 Test appearances but none at No.1 or 2, as the new Test opener, sparking debates and discussions within the cricketing community about this unexpected shift in Smith’s batting position.
