Steve Smith To Open, Green To Bat At 4; Here's Australia's Playing XI For 1st Test vs WI
Steve Smith will open in 1st Test vs WI [X.com]
In a significant development, Australia have announced their playing XI for the first Test of the upcoming two-match series against West Indies. Australia's chairman of selectors George Bailey has confirmed that veteran batter Steve Smith will open the batting for the hosts alongside veteran left-handed batter Usman Khawaja.
After David Warner's retirement, Smith had expressed his desire to open the batting in Tests. Although skipper Pat Cummins dismissed the idea of promoting the talisman to the top, Bailey's confirmation has officially approved the move.
Meanwhile, promising all-rounder Cameron Green will replace Smith in the middle order, batting at number four. Gritty batter Marnus Labuschagne will continue to bat at number three, with the swashbuckling duo of Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh slotted at number five and six, respectively.
Alex Carey, who has had a torrid time in international cricket of late, will don the keeper's hat, followed by skipper Pat Cummins and the three established pillars of Australian bowling- Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon.
Barring these players, Australia have also included domestic giants Matt Renshaw and Scott Boland in the 13-member squad.
Australia's playing XI for 1st Test vs West Indies
Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (WK), Pat Cummins (C), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood
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