Boxer Chandni Mehra

Steve Smith likely to be announced as Australia Test opener ahead of the AUS vs WI series

Steve Smith will likely be announced as the replacement for David Warner as the Australia Test opener for the upcoming AUS vs WI series. Cameron Green is set to be included in Australia’s squad for the upcoming two-Test series against the West Indies. David Warner played his final Test in the AUS vs PAK series .

The announcement of Australia’s squad, scheduled for Wednesday, has been eagerly awaited, particularly regarding the successor to David Warner. Players such as Cameron Bancroft, Marcus Harris, and Matthew Renshaw have been mentioned as potential replacements for Warner. However, there is growing momentum for Steve Smith to make a return as an opener, a move he expressed interest in, and one that the Australian team has been considering.

Steve Smith set to become Australia’s new Test opener #AUSvWI #CricketAustralia #SteveSmith #TestCricket #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/5mIc8QcyE7

— InsideSport (@InsideSportIND) January 9, 2024

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Cameron Green, 24, who lost his spot as Australia’s all-rounder to Mitch Marsh during the 2023 Ashes, is reportedly in contention for a spot in the lineup. The report suggests that Smith’s eagerness to open alongside Usman Khawaja has influenced Australia’s selection panel, especially since several other teammates have ruled out a move up the order.

While it’s not guaranteed that Smith will open, he seems to be the likely candidate if Australia decides to include Cameron Green in the playing XI. Green has previously found success batting at no.4 for Western Australia.

Likely Australia playing Xi for AUS vs WI:

Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins (c), Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

The post Steve Smith likely to be announced as Australia Test opener ahead of the AUS vs WI series appeared first on Inside Sport India.