As the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 between India and Australia approaches, Steve Smith’s form has become a hot topic of discussion following his disappointing performance in the Sheffield Shield. Smith, one of Australia’s most prolific batsmen, was dismissed for a four-ball duck during New South Wales’ match against Victoria, ringing alarm bells just weeks before the first Test against India.
Troubling outing in Sheffield Shield
Playing for New South Wales at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Smith endured a difficult time at the crease in both innings. After managing just three runs in the first innings, his second appearance was even more concerning. Facing Scott Boland, Smith didn’t offer a shot to an in-swinging delivery and was adjudged leg before wicket for a duck.
His reaction suggested that he misread the ball’s movement, raising concerns about his readiness for the upcoming series against India.
Victoria had taken control of the game, setting New South Wales a target of 383 runs, and Smith’s early dismissal added to the pressure on his side. This underperformance comes at a time when Australia’s batting order is in transition, and Smith is expected to play a key role in the team’s stability during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Steve Smith role in Batting line-up
Much of the conversation surrounding Smith lately has been about his position in Australia’s batting order ahead of the Test series. With David Warner’s recent retirement, Smith had initially stepped into the opener’s role alongside Usman Khawaja. However, for the upcoming India series, Smith is set to bat at his preferred No. 4 position.
“There is a spot available in the opening slot with Cameron Green ruled out. I had a conversation after [the] New Zealand series, with Marnus [Labuschagne] and Uzi [Khawaja] hated me at the top. They wanted me behind them,” Smith revealed in an interview with ESPNcricinfo.
Smith explained how Khawaja and Labuschagne’s desire for security in the batting line-up influenced his return to No. 4. “They were against me not batting there so that played a big role in the decision. I have got a good record at four,” Smith said.
Ideal position for Steve Smith
Though he had been temporarily moved up the order, Smith admitted that No. 4 has always been his ideal spot in the batting line-up. “I was asked about my favourite batting position, I said four. And didn’t ask them to change my batting order. I never requested them to demote me to number four. I am happy to bat wherever the management wants me to bat. Four would be my ideal position,” Smith said, clarifying his stance.
With Smith now settled into the No. 4 slot, his performance in this critical position will be closely scrutinised as Australia prepares to face India in a five-match Test series starting on November 22 in Perth.
India vs Australia Test series
The upcoming series holds immense significance for both India and Australia. Smith’s form will be crucial to Australia’s chances, as India boasts a formidable bowling attack that can exploit any weaknesses in the Australian line-up. The pressure on Smith to perform will only intensify following his recent struggles in domestic cricket.
As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy approaches, Smith’s four-ball duck may have raised concerns, but his experience and resilience will be key for Australia as they look to defend their home turf against a confident Indian side.
