Steven Smith has been picked as Australia's opener for the upcoming two-Test series against West Indies.
Smith has replaced David Warner at the top after the latter retired from the longest format.
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A first for Smith
The series opener begins on January 17 in Adelaide where Smith will open for the first time in Tests.
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A Test debut as leg-spinner
Smith made his Test debut in 2010 against Pakistan at Lord's. At the time of his debut, Smith was a leg-spinner who batter at number eight.
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Nearly 6,000 Test runs at number four
Smith has played the majority of his Test cricket at number four.
He owns 5,966 runs from 67 Tests at 61.50 in this regard. As many as 19 of his 32 Test tons have come at this position.
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Number three and five
Smith averages over 55 at number three (67.07) and five (57.18) as well. He has 12 combined tons in this regard.
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Has Smith opened in any format?
In a career spanning nearly 14 years, Smith has featured in 325 matches across formats (105 Tests, 155 ODIs, and 65 T20Is). He has opened in just two T20Is as of now (both in 2023).
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Statement from Michael Clarke
Michael Clarke, the former Australian captain, recently stated that Smith could become the best Test opener.