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Who Is Jamie Smith? England's New No. 3 For Their Champions Trophy Match Vs Australia?

Jatin

Jamie Smith will bat at No. 3 vs Australia [Source: @surreycricket/x.com]Jamie Smith will bat at No. 3 vs Australia [Source: @surreycricket/x.com]

England shook things up in their Champions Trophy opener against Australia and one of the biggest talking points is Jamie Smith. The young wicketkeeper-batter is all set to bat at No. 3 for the first time in his ODI career, stepping into a role that has been Joe Root’s territory for nearly a decade.

But who exactly is Jamie Smith, and what makes him England’s new go-to guy?

Who Is Jamie Smith? The Young Gun Taking Over Joe Root’s No 3 Spot?

Jamie Smith isn’t a household name just yet, but England clearly have big plans for him. The 23-year-old has played just seven ODIs so far, batting lower down the order at No. 5 or 6. But now, he’s been thrown straight into the deep end, facing Australia at No. 3 in his first-ever ICC tournament.

Smith’s ability to take on new challenges has already earned him a place in England’s evolving batting setup. He missed most of England’s white-ball tour to India with a calf injury but is now fully fit and ready to go. And he’s not just playing as a specialist batter, he will also take the gloves ahead of Phil Salt and Jos Buttler.

Jamie Smith's Stats

Smith’s international stats are still a work in progress but his potential is evident. In just nine Test matches, he has amassed 637 runs at an impressive average of 42.46, including a century and four fifties.

His ODI numbers: 133 runs from six innings at an average of 22.16 aren’t staggering but he’s only just getting started. And his T20I strike rate of 175.00 suggests he has the firepower to take on any bowling attack.

Why England Need Him at No 3?

England’s middle order looked shaky in their 3-0 ODI series loss in India, and they’ve opted for a batting-heavy lineup to start the Champions Trophy. With Root now slotting in at No. 4, England are looking to solidify their top order. Smith’s inclusion at No. 3 ensures that the team has a reliable batter up front, allowing Root, Harry Brook, and Buttler to strengthen the middle order.

England struggled with team balance after Jacob Bethell’s injury in India. They either looked one batter short or lacked enough bowling depth. Now, they’ve gone with a stronger batting lineup, with Liam Livingstone at No. 7 and expected to share ten overs with Root. This means Smith’s role at No. 3 becomes even more crucial as he needs to hold the innings together if early wickets fall.

Tough Start Against Australia

Smith’s first game in the new role won’t be a cakewalk. England are facing Australia, who, despite being hit by injuries and withdrawals, still pose a serious threat. With Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Marsh, Marcus Stoinis, and Mitchell Starc all missing, Australia are slightly weakened. 

But England will still have to be at their best to start the tournament on a winning note. For Jamie Smith, this is a golden opportunity to prove his worth on the biggest stage. If he delivers, England might just have found their long-term No. 3.