Australia opener Usman Khawaja is uncertain about whether Steven Smith should continue as an opener for the Baggy Greens in Test cricket, questioning if it’s the best combination. Following David Warner’s retirement from Test cricket, Smith took over as Warner’s successor and partnered with Khawaja as an opener during Australia’s series against New Zealand in February. However, Smith’s performance in those matches, where he scored just 51 runs across four innings, has raised doubts about the opening combination for the upcoming Test series against India starting on November 22.
Khawaja expressed his camaraderie with Smith but acknowledged the need to assess if their partnership at the top of the order is optimal. “I get along with Steve Smith well. I have known him since I was 14. I enjoy batting with him. Is it the best opening combination for Australia not sure,” Khawaja remarked during the launch of Prime Cafe in Melbourne.
With Smith as the opener, Cameron Green was slotted into the middle order. Although Travis Head is an option to open alongside Khawaja, he typically bats at number five for added batting depth.
Khawaja anticipates minimal changes to the Australian setup ahead of the India series, focusing on adapting to different venues and fielding the best team accordingly. “I do not expect the Australian team to change too much for the series. It has been a similar team for the last couple of years, except for Davey, going out,” Khawaja commented.
Australia’s Test series against India will commence at Optus Stadium, Burswood on November 22 and conclude at the Melbourne Cricket Ground with the final game starting on December 26.