India vs Australia: Steve Smith Points to Marnus Labuschagne and Usman Khawaja for Missing Out on Opening Slot
Australia’s top Test batsman, Steve Smith, has cited his return to the number 4 spot in the lineup for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India, attributing it to the reluctance of Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne, who both expressed their discomfort with him taking the opening role.
Steve Smith is set to return to the number 4 spot for Australia in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India. While Australia’s chief selector, George Bailey, recently said that Smith preferred moving down from the opening position, Smith clarified the situation. He explained that he only discussed his preferred batting spot but revealed that Marnus Labuschagne and Usman Khawaja didn’t like the idea of him opening the innings.
This led to the decision, supported by captain Pat Cummins and coach Andrew McDonald, to move Smith back to his usual middle-order position for the series. In the discussion, Smith disclosed that:
I got asked where I’d prefer to bat, and I said four. I didn’t ask [to move] though. I also said I’m happy batting wherever. I’m not really too fussed. I got asked where my preference would be, and I said four. I saw a few things last week saying that I’ve requested to bat at four. That wasn’t the case. I said I’m happy to bat wherever you’d like me to bat but, yeah, four would be my ideal position.
Steve Smith mentioned that Marnus Labuschagne and Usman Khawaja wanted him to stay at the number 4 spot for added stability in the batting order. With David Warner now retired, the Australian team is still searching for a solid replacement in the opening slot as they prepare for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
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