“Steve Smith’s Test Opener Role: Chairman of Selectors George Bailey’s Confirmation and Captain Cummins’ Apprehensions”

Steve Smith, Australia’s reliable presence at one drop, has officially been designated as the new Test opener by George Bailey, the chairman of selectors. Despite the selection panel initially choosing Matt Renshaw to fill the vacancy left by David Warner in the Test squad against West Indies, Smith has been granted the opportunity to bat at the top. Smith’s elevation to the opening position has been approved, despite reservations expressed by captain Pat Cummins. Cummins had previously indicated satisfaction with Smith’s contributions at No.4, as Smith was being considered as an unconventional choice for the opener’s role following David Warner’s retirement.

Although Cummins played down the idea, Smith himself had recently conveyed his eagerness to open the innings, receiving support for the suggestion from teammate Marnus Labuschagne and former captain Michael Clarke.

First Test Squad: Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc

The move to install Steve Smith as Australia's next opener could extend his Test career, selection chair George Bailey says@ARamseyCricket | #AUSvWI https://t.co/s9XsKaWKWg

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 10, 2024