‘It’s re-energised him’ – Pat Cummins on Smith’s new role

Steve Smith, who is 34 years old, has found newfound energy from the challenge of opening in Test Cricket, according to Australian captain Pat Cummins. Smith was eager to take on the challenge of replacing David Warner at the top of the order for Australia, having averaged over 60 at No. 3 and No. 4 during a great career. Rather of selecting a new opener, the selectors fulfilled the demand of the former Test captain by inserting Cameron Green into the XI to bat at No. 4.

“You’ve got to entertain that,” Cummins said of Smith’s promotion prior to the first Test match against the West Indies in Adelaide. “Seeing someone who has basically achieved everything in the game get really excited for a new challenge,” It has given him newfound energy, and you can already see his mind racing with ideas about how he may approach it differently.

“I’ve never seen him around the nets the past couple of days as joyful and enthusiastic as I have. He is eager to venture outside. Consider the new ball as well; perhaps there will be further opportunities to score. It’s an exciting thing for him. That makes sense, and it puts Greeny in a position where we believe he will succeed.”

Australia already boasts a potent bowling attack, so Green’s addition provides them a sixth bowling option. The Australian XI for the opening Test had no shocks, while the West Indies disclosed they will be fielding three debutants. In addition to pacer Shamar Joseph making his debut, middle order players Kavem Hodge and Justin Greaves will also be used.

Although it becomes sense that Cameron Bancroft’s removal drew a lot of attention, Cummins has emphasized that he and Marcus Harris are still welcome. Matt Renshaw was chosen over Bancroft, the Sheffield Shield’s top rungetter, because of his adaptability.

“We love what they both are doing in first-class cricket,” Cummins stated. “We adore the contributions they make to any team they play for. They are acting appropriately at all times. Regretfully, this is one that they both narrowly missed. Thus, the lesson was to not alter.

“Injuries happen frequently in international cricket, and players don’t stay on the field for very long. Renners (Renshaw), Marcus (Harris), and Cam (Bancroft) are all still somewhat young. Any one of them, we believe, can therefore step right in and perform really well when the opportunity arises at some point.”