“I’m averaging 60 as an opener”- Steve Smith shuts critics who questioned his opening abilities.

In the midst of scrutiny regarding his new role as a Test opener, Steve Smith has addressed critics, dismissing the commentary as excessive. The former Australian captain came under fire following moderate performances against the West Indies in Adelaide and Brisbane. Renowned figures such as Michael Vaughan and Mark Waugh voiced concerns about his unorthodox technique against swing and seam movement with the new ball.

Despite amassing over 16,000 international runs with his unique approach, doubts persisted about its efficacy at the top of the order. However, Smith silenced critics with a resilient 91-run innings at the Gabba, maintaining an impressive 60 average across four innings. Responding to recent criticisms, the right-handed batsman defended his ability to adapt to the opening position.

Steve Smith said “There was a lot of commentary around I’d failed in two or three innings or whatever it was. I had a not-out and two low scores. And now I think I’m averaging 60 as an opener. I didn’t really read too much into it. It was just another position. I’ve batted against a new ball numerous times coming in early.

“I’ve thought about it; whether we could do different things. Maybe, I could have taken five balls against Shamar [Joseph], he was on fire, obviously. But then I run the risk of not getting a run off the last ball and Hoff having to take all six from Alzarri [Joseph], who’s a pretty good bowler as well. You can weigh those things up. Four/two is the traditional way to do things, I suppose, and it felt right at the time. But yeah, it wasn’t to be.”