Australia head coach Andrew McDonald withheld details about team plans for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with discussions ongoing regarding Steve Smith’s role as an opener.
Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has refrained from revealing specific details about the team’s strategy for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, set to begin on November 22. McDonald confirmed that discussions are ongoing between team management and captain Pat Cummins regarding the team’s composition, including the crucial decision on Steve Smith’s role as an opener.
Smith, one of the most prolific Test batters of the modern era, has faced scrutiny over his performance at the top of the order since taking over the opening spot following David Warner’s retirement.
In four Tests as an opener, Smith has averaged 28.50, a significant drop from his overall Test average of 56.97. The uncertainty surrounding Smith’s position has become a major talking point ahead of the five-match Test series against India. “Clearly, if we make a shift with Steve Smith, then someone else will have to go to the top. We’ve seen Cameron Green be really successful at number four as well, so that adds layers to the decision-making. But nothing is firm and fixed at the moment,” McDonald explained.
Australia’s selectors are expected to closely monitor performances in the upcoming Sheffield Shield season, which starts on October 8, to help finalize the Test squad and identify potential backup options. McDonald emphasized that the national team will communicate its plans to New South Wales, particularly with regard to Smith’s involvement in the Shield season.
“We’ll unveil everything, and we’ll let (NSW coach) Greg Shipperd know what our plans are. Then we’ll see what he does with his New South Wales side, should Steve Smith play Shield cricket,” McDonald added.
Australia will be keen to get their team combination right as they aim to end India’s dominance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. India have won the last two Test series in Australia and remain undefeated against the hosts since 2014-15.
Last Updated on September 10, 2024
