Australian wicketkeeper-batsman Alex Carey has expressed confidence in Steve Smith’s ability to deliver as an opener, despite his recent low scores in the role.
Carey, from South Australia, believes that Smith has the potential to score a significant hundred in the fourth innings of the ongoing Test against the West Indies at the Gabba in Brisbane.
Since opening in the Adelaide Test against the West Indies, Smith has yet to surpass 20 runs, being dismissed for 12 in the first innings and staying unbeaten on 11 as Australia chased 26 for victory. Unfortunately, he fell lbw to Kemar Roach in the first over on Day 2 of the second Test in Brisbane.
Carey mentioned in Brisbane after the day’s play that Steve Smith, being one of the world’s best batters, will discover a method to register substantial centuries. According to Carey, as reported by Perth Now:
“He has been dismissed twice as an opener now, and he is going to be dismissed a lot more as an opener. This, He is one of the best batters in the world, and he will find a way to score big hundreds.”
“He has done it in really difficult situations before. … a big innings is coming up, and, hopefully, it is in the second innings”
The 34-year-old has shown eagerness to step into the shoes of David Warner, who retired from Test cricket after the recent series against Pakistan. Given Smith’s struggles as an opener, it’s uncertain whether he will revert to No.4.
“He’s not providing himself much opportunity to make solid contact with the ball”- Brian Lara on Steve Smith’s weakness
During an appearance on Fox Sports, ex-West Indies captain Brian Lara analyzed Steve Smith’s technique, noting that his body and bat positioning are not in the right alignment.
“His body’s going towards point. His bat is going towards mid-wicket, and the ball is crashing into middle stump. He’s giving himself little or no chance to make good contact with the ball.”
The outcome of the Brisbane Test hangs in the balance as West Indies hold a 35-run lead going into Day 3. Australia declared at 289-9, trailing by 22 runs.
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