Australia’s Test opening conundrum remains unresolved as the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India approaches. Shane Watson believes Steven Smith should continue at the top of the order, despite his recent struggles.
Smith’s move to opener after David Warner’s retirement has sparked debate. Watson initially favored Cameron Green for the role, but Green’s impressive performances at No. 4 have convinced him otherwise.
“Cameron Green came in and batted at No. 4 and did a brilliant job,” Watson said. “He’s the perfect No. 4 candidate now.”
However, Green’s availability for the India series is uncertain due to a lower back injury. Cricket Australia is assessing his scans and an announcement on his status is expected this week.
Smith’s four-Test stint as opener has yielded 171 runs at an average of 28.50. Watson believes Smith’s recent struggles are due to technical issues, not his position.
“He was a little bit off with his technique,” Watson said. “If he opens and makes those little adjustments, he can be incredibly successful.”
Watson also expressed his disappointment with the decision to host the opening Test in Perth instead of Brisbane.
“The Gabba is a more challenging place to play for the foreign teams,” Watson said. “It provides a few more challenges, whereas Perth, for example, it’s not humid, the ball doesn’t swing as much.”
The Gabba has been an Australian stronghold, but has been breached recently by West Indies and India. The ground’s future is uncertain as Brisbane requires upgraded infrastructure for the 2032 Olympic games.
