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As Australia prepares for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, there are significant changes in their lineup, particularly regarding star batter Steve Smith’s role in the batting order. Cricket Australia’s chair of selectors, George Bailey, confirmed that Smith, who had been opening in recent matches, will move back to the middle order ahead of the Test series against India, which starts on November 22 in Perth.
The decision to shift Smith down the order had been under discussion even before all-rounder Cameron Green was ruled out for the summer with a back injury. Bailey revealed that Smith had been in talks with skipper Pat Cummins and head coach Andrew McDonald about his desire to move back to his preferred position in the middle order, away from the opening spot he temporarily held.
Bailey’s Confirmation on Smith’s Role
In a statement to ESPNcricinfo, Bailey explained the reasoning behind the move:
“Pat, Andrew, and Steve have been having ongoing conversations separate from the untimely injury to Cameron. Steve had expressed a desire to move back down from the opening position, and after discussions, it was confirmed that he will be batting lower in the order for the summer.”
Bailey also clarified that while Smith’s move back to the middle order is certain, the exact position remains flexible, with Cummins and McDonald set to decide the final batting order. The No. 4 position will be a key area of focus, alongside the need to fill the opening spot left vacant by Smith’s shift.
Impact on the Australian Lineup
Smith’s move down the order adds a layer of experience to Australia’s middle-order lineup, particularly with the absence of Green, who was ruled out due to a stress fracture in his back. This development opens up opportunities for other batters to step up, especially as Australia continues to focus on rebuilding its Test squad ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Bailey emphasized that the discussions around the team’s batting order are ongoing and fluid. “Part of those discussions have been had about what it might look like. But once you have moving parts, a lot of conversations become null and void,” he added, indicating that the team’s final structure will evolve as the series approaches.
Australia’s Preparation for India
Australia’s series against India promises to be a high-stakes contest, especially given the fierce rivalry between the two cricketing nations. The team has been preparing rigorously, looking to build on its strengths and address any gaps in the lineup caused by injuries or tactical changes.
Steve Smith, one of Australia’s most experienced batters, will be central to their plans. His ability to stabilize the middle order could prove crucial in countering India’s potent bowling attack. Smith’s return to his preferred batting position may also boost his individual performance, as he has often thrived in the middle order during previous Test series.
Challenges Ahead for Australia
With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy fast approaching, Australia faces the challenge of balancing its lineup, especially with Green’s absence and Smith’s shift. The opening pair will need to step up in Smith’s absence, and the No. 4 spot remains an open question. However, Bailey expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adapt and find the right combination for success against India.
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As Australia continues its preparations, all eyes will be on how they adjust to these changes and how Steve Smith performs in his new role in the middle order. The series against India is expected to be one of the highlights of the cricketing calendar, with fans eagerly awaiting the outcome of this historic rivalry.
With these changes and Smith’s crucial move to the middle order, Australia will be hoping to secure a dominant start in the first Test against India, which will set the tone for the rest of the series.
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