Recently, Michael Clarke didn’t mince words. He criticized the Aussie selectors over what he termed an ’embarrassing’ move. The bone of contention? Steve Smith’s appointment as the opener for upcoming T20s against South Africa.
This Monday, Selection chair George Bailey dropped a bombshell. Announcing a 14-man squad for the imminent three-match series, he revealed Smith’s new batting role. Given Aaron Finch’s retirement last year, and Smith’s sterling form opening for Sydney Sixers in the BBL, Bailey justified his choice. He commented, “Smith was too hard to ignore.”
Notably, this series marks Smith’s T20 opening debut for Australia. Expounding his choice, Bailey remarked, “His Big Bash innings were exhilarating. It underscored his skill set.” He added, “Given his performance, we yearned to see that magic on the international stage.”
Smith’s enthusiasm for this role was palpable. He expressed eagerness to be part of the T20s. Bailey indicated this might translate to Smith resting during some one-day matches against South Africa. He articulated his excitement: “We’re keen to witness his Big Bash opener approach on the international front.”
Yet, the decision hasn’t sat well with everyone. Especially not with Clarke. Smith’s sparse involvement in the previous year’s T20 World Cup remains a sore point. Selected for just one match, Australia failed to reach the semi-finals. Clarke’s disbelief was evident. Speaking on Sky Sports Radio, he voiced, “This selection is embarrassing. Smith was in the World Cup team and didn’t even make the XI consistently.”
Michael Clarke’s Outburst: A Take on Australia’s T20 Batting Rejig involving Steve Smith
Further critiquing the last 15 months, Clarke expressed confusion. “Our World Cup performance was baffling. I couldn’t fathom Smith’s exclusion,” he lamented. He continued, “There seems to be no accountability. It’s as if issues just vanish.”
Clarke’s bafflement continued. “I feel like I’m watching a different game. Smith’s T20 strategy perplexes me,” he stated. Adding more fuel, he noted, “Smith isn’t playing other T20s globally. He even missed an IPL spot. However, his passion is evident.”
Historically, Smith has batted in varied positions for Australia. From No.3 to No.9 in T20s, his versatility is unquestioned. His recent transformation as an opener saw him scoring consecutive centuries for the Sixers in the BBL’s tail end. Consequently, this shift provides Smith with an opportunity. He might cement his place as Australia’s premier opener in next year’s T20 World Cup.
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Now, the question on everyone’s lips: Who will partner Steve Smith against South Africa? With David Warner resting for the T20 leg, speculations are rife. However, fans can expect Warner’s return in the subsequent five ODIs against South Africa.
Australia’s T20 batting shuffle has stirred the pot. While Bailey and the selectors envision a dynamic start with Smith, naysayers like Clarke remain sceptical. Only time will tell if this gamble brings triumph or tumult on the pitch.
Australia T20 squad:
Mitchell Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Jason Behrendorff, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa
