Australia's opening conundrum: Steve Smith unsure about role against India
Team Australia is grappling with the challenge of finding a suitable opening partner for Usman Khawaja, ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. This dilemma has been triggered by David Warner's retirement, leaving a significant gap in the team's opening lineup. Despite efforts to fill this void with Steve Smith, the former captain has not been able to replicate his usual form.
Smith's performance as opener raises concerns
Smith's performance as an opener has been less than stellar, with his Test average taking a significant hit. Despite maintaining an impressive average of 56.97 in the longest format overall, his record as an opener is not as strong. In the four matches where he opened for Australia, Smith has averaged just 28.50, raising concerns about his suitability for this role in the upcoming series against India.
Teammates express preference for Smith's position
Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne have both expressed their preference for Smith to bat at No.4 in the upcoming series against India. When asked about his role as Australia's opener for the series, Smith told reporters that discussions are ongoing. "Usman I think said that he likes me down at No.4. I think Marnus has similar thoughts," he said, adding that he is willing to bat anywhere for the team.
Australia's track record against India in Test series
Australia last defeated India in a Test series during the 2014/15 season under Smith's captaincy. Since then, they have faced two losses at home to India, making the latter the only Asian side to beat Australia Down Under in a Test series. Despite these setbacks, Smith remains optimistic about the upcoming five-match series for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. "It's going to be a wonderful series," he said.
