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In a significant shift for Australia’s cricket lineup, Steve Smith is set to return to his familiar No. 4 position for the highly anticipated five-Test series against India. The decision comes after extensive discussions between Smith, captain Pat Cummins, and head coach Andrew McDonald. This change reverts Smith to his preferred role in the middle order after a brief stint as an opener during the New Zealand series.
Smith, one of the world’s top Test batters, had volunteered to open following David Warner’s retirement. Though he managed an impressive unbeaten 91 in one of his early matches as an opener, his overall performance in the series against New Zealand was underwhelming. Across four innings, Smith could only muster a total of 51 runs, struggling to adapt to the new role.
The move back to No. 4 was solidified by Cameron Green’s absence due to a back surgery that will keep him out for six months. Green, who had been filling Smith’s previous spot at No. 4, left a vacancy that was well-suited for Smith’s return. This position has been particularly fruitful for Smith throughout his career. At No. 4, he has amassed 5,966 runs at an average of 61, including 19 centuries and 26 fifties.
The decision to restore Smith to the middle order was reportedly in discussion before Green’s injury, as Smith had expressed a desire to move back to his more familiar role. This strategy reflects Australia’s commitment to maximizing Smith’s impact in the pivotal position. His return to No. 4 is expected to provide stability to Australia’s batting lineup, especially in a series as challenging as the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
This move also shifts Australia’s focus to finding a new opening partner for Usman Khawaja, another key player at the top of the order. Several players are in contention for this role, including Cameron Bancroft, Marcus Harris, and rising star Sam Konstas. Bancroft, who had served a nine-month ban for his involvement in the 2018 ball-tampering scandal, has been a standout performer in domestic cricket and could be the front-runner for the opening spot. Konstas, meanwhile, has attracted attention with back-to-back centuries in the Sheffield Shield, earning a spot in the Australia ‘A’ squad.
The upcoming series against India is critical for Australia, not just because of its historical significance, but also because it will test the team’s adaptability and depth. With Smith back in his comfort zone at No. 4 and an open slot at the top of the order, the selectors will be keenly watching the Australia ‘A’ series to finalize the lineup. The first Test against India begins on November 22 in Perth, kicking off what promises to be an intense and closely fought series.
In conclusion, Steve Smith’s return to No. 4 reflects both a tactical shift and the player’s personal preference. His experience and proven record in this position make him a linchpin in Australia’s batting lineup as they gear up for a challenging series against a formidable Indian side. The team’s success in this series will depend heavily on how well they can balance their lineup with new openers and established middle-order players.