Pat Cummins emphasized that Steve Smith’s new role as a Test opener presents a fresh challenge, urging people not to underestimate the former captain.
Australia’s captain, Pat Cummins, shared the news of Steve Smith’s joy in being elevated to the opener’s role for the Test series against West Indies, partnering with Usman Khawaja post David Warner’s retirement. Cummins acknowledged the challenge for Smith but cautioned against underestimating him, emphasizing Smith’s unprecedented happiness and energy during recent net sessions.
The skipper noted that Smith, now re-energized, eagerly embraced the new role, displaying a willingness to adjust his approach and techniques as he prepares to open alongside Khawaja in the upcoming series against West Indies.
“It’s a new challenge for him, which I don’t think you can underestimate. I’ve never seen him just as happy and as energetic as I have seen him around the nets the last couple of days,” Cummins was quoted as saying to the reporters.
“Seeing someone who has basically achieved everything in the game get really excited for a new challenge, you have got to entertain that. You can see already his mind whirring about how he’s going to maybe go about a little bit differently … it’s like re-energizing,” he added.
Earlier, chief selector George Bailey had expressed enthusiasm about Smith taking on the challenge, citing his motivation and energy. Bailey revealed that Cameron Green would assume the number four position. Shifting Smith up the order, instead of selecting a specialist opener, accommodates Green’s return as a batsman. Bailey sees Smith aligning with the team’s strategy, presenting a unique solution to Australia’s opening conundrum in the upcoming series.
Last Updated on January 16, 2024
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