Follow UsSteve Smith’s decision to open in Test cricket has been a hot topic of debate. While numbers suggest that Smith's form has declined, a faction wants to see the 35-year-old continue in his new role.
One of them is former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson, who wants Smith to continue opening the innings. Watson also insisted that Smith has all the skills to ace that ‘tough’ opening role. As an opener, Smith has only scored 171 runs at an average of 28.50, with just one fifty.
"Steve Smith made the call to be able to go and open, and I think he should stay there,” Watson said on the sidelines of the launch of the International Masters League, reported ESPNCricinfo.
Smith’s numbers have been crazy at No.4, where he has dominated Test cricket, scoring 5966 runs at an average of 61.50, which really set him apart from others. Even then, Watson believes that Smith shouldn’t go back to his safety blanket.
"Obviously, the safety blanket for him would be moving back to No. 4, but I would love to see him continue to take on the opening spot because he's got the skill to be able to do it," Watson added.
"Cameron Green came in and batted at No. 4 and did a brilliant job. His hundred that he got in New Zealand was something very special and he's the perfect No. 4 candidate now with the future, moving forward."
So, what’s holding back Smith, the Test opener?
"I believe the reason why he didn't do so well over the previous couple of Test matches is just [that] he was a little bit off with his technique," Watson said. "You see [saw] him getting out a couple of ways which I've never really seen him get out before.
"I know he would've had time just to go away, make some little technical adjustments, and if he opens and he makes those little adjustments, he can be incredibly successful as an opening batter knowing the incredible skill that he's got."
It would be interesting to see if Smith continues his role as an opener for the much-awaited five-match Test series against India later this year.
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