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'Don't Be Surprised If He Breaks Lara's 400 Record': WC-Winning Captain Backs Smith To Open In Tests

Vishal Mehra

image-lr4u940gSteve Smith has expressed keenness to open in Tests [AP Photo]

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The retirement of opener David Warner has left a glaring hole in Australia's opening slot, for which several candidates have already showcased their eagerness.

Leading the way is former captain Steve Smith, who has publicly spoken about opening the innings in Tests while the team management is eyeing all-rounder Cameron Green for the position.

Former captain and a predecessor to Smith, Michael Clarke has backed his ex-teammate to find his lost form if made to open.

As quoted by ESPN's Around the Wicket Podcast, the 2015 World Cup-winning skipper further claimed that Smith could very-well break former West Indies legend Brian Lara's Test record of the highest individual score (400*) if given an opportunity.


Don’t be surprised if he breaks Brian Lara’s 400 record - Michael Clarke

"If he wants to do it, I think they will allow him to do it. Listening to Patty Cummins’ quotes, I think it’s a simple swap. I think Cameron Green is going to come in to open the batting for David Warner unless Steve Smith wants to do it. If he does, they might go Steve Smith to open and Cam Green at No.4 or Green to No.6," Clarke said.

"He [Smith] is that good a player. It might be that challenge he’s looking for. If he opens, he will be the best opener within 12 months. Don’t be surprised if he breaks Brian Lara’s 400 record because he’s that good and now he’s got the whole day," the World Cup-winning Australian captain added.

Meanwhile, Cricket Australia (CA) is set to name a strong Test squad for the upcoming two-Test series against West Indies starting January 17 on Wednesday. Apart from Smith and Green, other domestic run-getters like Matthew Renshaw, Cameron Bancroft, and Marcus Harris are also in the running to secure a place alongside Test opener Usman Khawaja. 

Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson also echoed similar opinions to that of Clarke, mentioning Smith is an ideal contender as Warner's replacement.