Australian cricket star Steve Smith has decided to bat at the No. 4 spot in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India. The series will take place from November 22, 2024, to January 7, 2025. Earlier this year, Smith had tried opening the batting after David Warner retired from Test cricket, but he couldn’t perform as well as usual.
Steve Smith’s Struggles as an Opener
Steve Smith is known for being one of the best players in Test cricket, but when he tried opening the batting after Warner’s retirement, he didn’t do as well. In four matches, he scored only 171 runs, averaging 28.50, which is much lower than what he’s used to. With the important Border-Gavaskar series coming up, Australia’s selectors, led by George Bailey, decided to move Smith back to No. 4, where he has always played better.
Why No. 4 is the Best Spot for Smith
After a Sheffield Shield match, Steve Smith shared why he chose to bat at No. 4. “I was asked where I’d like to bat, and I said No. 4. But I also said I’m okay with batting wherever the team needs me,” he explained. Smith was flexible, but he believes that batting at No. 4 will bring out his best performance.
Although he enjoyed opening the batting, Smith said it wasn’t enough matches to show how good he could be as an opener. “It was fun trying something new, and I think I can still do well there. But I’ve done really well at No. 4 for many years, and that’s where I think I can help the team the most now,” he added.
Smith’s Strong Record at No. 4
Smith has a fantastic record at No. 4. In 67 matches at this position, he has scored 5966 runs with an average of 61.50. These runs include 19 centuries and 26 half-centuries, making him one of Australia’s most reliable batsmen.
Exciting Border-Gavaskar Trophy Ahead
The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy promises to be exciting, with both Australia and India eager to win. This will be the first time since 1991-92 that the two teams will play a five-match Test series in Australia. The first match will be at Perth Stadium, and the last one will be at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Fans are excited to see Smith back at No. 4, hoping he will help Australia win the trophy on home soil.
India’s Tour of Australia 2024-25 Schedule:
- 1st Test: November 22-26, Perth Stadium, Perth (Day)
- 2nd Test: December 6-10, Adelaide Oval, Adelaide (Day/Night)
- 3rd Test: December 14-18, The Gabba, Brisbane (Day)
- 4th Test: December 26-30, MCG, Melbourne (Day)
- 5th Test: January 3-7, SCG, Sydney (Day)
Also Read: Top Five Cricketers Who Took Up Acting As their Profession
