Australian Star batter Marnus Labuschagne who shares a great bond with teammate Steve Smith, made a revelation ahead of a Big Bash League 2023/24 game, seemingly confirming that Smith would open in Tests. Steve Smith will have an uphill task against quality Caribbean fast bowlers despite Cricket West Indies (CWI) naming a second string squad.
Australia would be aiming to continue their dominance in the red ball against the unpredictable Men in Maroon. Pat Cummins will be aware of the fact that he needs to rotate Mitchell Starc & Josh Hazlewood smartly as there’s a lot of cricketing action in the next 3-6 months as these 3 pacers are an integral part of the side.
I have got no doubt that Steve Smith is going to be a fabulous opener for Australia- Marnus Labuschagne
Speaking to Fox Sports before the match between Brisbane Heat and Perth Scorchers, Labuschagne claimed that he received a text message from Smith, confirming that he would be opening in the longest format. This disclosure adds more weight to the growing speculation about Steve Smith’s potential shift to the opening position in Test cricket.
Marnus Labuschagne explained why he believed Steve Smith would relish the new challenge of opening in Test cricket and also discussed the potential for Cameron Green to settle in at the No. 4 position. Marnus said,
“No, I just got a message just saying, I’m the opener’ (laughs). I have got no doubt he is going to be a fabulous opener for Australia. His record in every position he has batted in is unbelievable and I have got no doubt it is going to continue that way. It is obviously a little bit of a different shake-up to our side with Cameron Green probably going to slot in at No. 4, so it is going to be a nice unique change,”
Steve Smith has never opened in a first-class game before and the legendary test batter is all set to take up a new challenge in the series against West Indies.
I was always happy to do whatever the team needed”- Marnus Labuschagne
After David Warner announced his Test retirement, several players, including Marnus Labuschagne, were considered for various roles in the batting order. While Labuschagne acknowledged his readiness to do whatever the team needed, he expressed contentment in being the bridge between Steve Smith and Cameron Green, continuing to consolidate the No. 3 position.
Regarding this, Labuschagne stated,
“Look I was always happy to do whatever the team needed, but that conversation didn’t really happen. Steve beat me to the gun. He really wanted it, so I am happy for him. I’ll stay at No. 3 and we will see how the change goes,”
Marnus Labuschagne showcased good form as he scored a quickfire 45 for the Brisbane Heat on Wednesday. From the Australian Test Squad Usman Khawaja also represented the Heat in the game against Perth Scorchers and Alex Carey played the game against Hobart Hurricanes for Adelaide Strikers.
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