Australia’s hopes of reclaiming the Border-Gavaskar Trophy heavily depend on Steve Smith. However, Deep Dasgupta believes India would welcome Smith’s recent move to open the innings. Traditionally a dominant middle-order batter, Smith has been opening for Australia following David Warner’s retirement. Unfortunately, this shift hasn’t yielded great results, with Smith managing just 171 runs in eight innings, including a best of 91 not out.
Smith has excelled in the middle order throughout his career, accumulating nearly 6000 runs batting at No. 4. His decision to take on the role of an opener could play into India’s hands during the upcoming five-Test series.
The former Indian cricketer Deep Dasgupta is confident that India’s bowlers won’t be too worried if Smith continues to open. Recalling a conversation with Smith, Dasgupta mentioned that the Australian batter has specific plans for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which India’s bowlers, led by captain Rohit Sharma, are likely to relish. The key will be for India to dismiss Smith early, a crucial factor in gaining the upper hand.
The last time Australia held the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Smith was instrumental, scoring 769 runs in four Tests. However, if India can exploit Smith’s current vulnerability as an opener, it could provide a significant advantage for the visiting team in their quest to retain the trophy.
Deep Dasgupta stated in a show on Youtube, “If you’re an Indian, you’d be happy to see Steve Smith opening. You don’t want to see Steve Smith batting at 4 or down the order because it’s baffling. Almost the peak of his career he’s done so well over so many years batting at that number. Starting to open? It’s a different ball game you know. Anyone who has played any level of cricket will tell you that middle order in Test cricket and opening are two very different jobs. When you’re coming in to bat with 20 overs bowled and with a new ball, they’re very different.”
We also agree with Deep Dasgupta, what do you say?
