Star batsman Steve Smith silenced doubters about his promotion as an opener by delivering an outstanding performance in the recently concluded second Test against the West Indies in Brisbane. After a series of unremarkable innings at the top of the order, Smith notched an unbeaten 91, showcasing his prowess and determination.
Facing the fierce pace of Shamar Joseph, who wreaked havoc by claiming 7 wickets in the innings, the Australian batters struggled to find answers. However, Smith stood tall, steering his team through a challenging period with his resilient knock.
“I received criticism for not performing well in two or three innings, having a not-out and two low scores. Currently, my average as an opener is 60,” Smith said on Wednesday.
The former Australia captain, speaking at the MCG, emphasized that he had embraced the new position and was willing to adapt to the team’s needs.
“It’s simply a different role, I’ve faced the new ball many times, entering the game early. I’ve liked the initial weeks of it… if they decide to shift me back, I’ll do what’s best for the team,” he added.
Despite Smith’s stellar performance, the match took an unexpected turn as Shamar Joseph, an injured pace bowler for the West Indies, produced a stunning spell of fast bowling. Joseph’s exceptional effort led his side to a historic eight-run victory over Australia in Brisbane, marking one of the greatest upsets in Test history.
“I heard a discussion, I believe we were seven down just before lunch, and I heard him talking to Kraigg Brathwaite… he said, ‘I’m bowling until the end, man,’” he concluded.
Smith praised Joseph as a rare talent and commended the West Indies for their spirited performance.
Australia is said to take on West Indies in a three-match ODI series from Friday
After levelling the Test series with a historic win at The Gabba, West Indies will be hoping to keep their momentum going in the three-match ODI series at Australia.
West Indies will be eager to make a mark in the series after failing to qualify for the ICC World Cup 2023. Australia on the other hand are reigning World Champions and will be a tough side to beat at home.
Australia has four uncapped players in their squad- Jake Fraser-McGurk, Lance Morris, Xavier Bartlett, and Will Sutherland. Six of their world cup heroes have been rested for the series and Steve Smith will captain the side.
West Indies have two uncapped players- Teddy Bishop and Tevin Imlach. Shai Hope and Alzarri Joseph are the only two players with experience of 50 or more matches in the current WI squad.
Australian squad: Steve Smith (c), Travis Head (vc), Cameron Green, Marnus Labuschagne, Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Josh Inglis, Lance Morris, Matt Short, Will Sutherland, Adam Zampa
West Indies’s squad: Shai Hope (c), Alzarri Joseph, Kavem Hodge, Roston Chase, Alick Athanaze, Teddy Bishop, Keacy Carty, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Tevin Imlach, Gudakesh Motie, Kjorn Ottley, Romario Shepherd, Oshane Thomas, Hayden Walsh Jr.