Tim Paine, who once played with Steve Smith, has mocked the new Test opener for his ordinary performances with the bat. He said that rival team would want him to continue in that role as it makes things easier for them.
Smith, promoted to open the innings after David Warner’s retirement, has struggled to get going. Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has supported Smith and said he would open the innings against India when the Rohit Sharma-led team visits Australia.
Speaking to ESPN, Paine said Smith as an opener is the best chance for the opposite numbers to get him out.
“If I am from the opposition camp, I would want Steve Smith to open the innings in Test cricket as he can be easily undone in that position. Smith was at his best in the Ashes in 2019 when he batted at the number four slot. England bowlers were not able to get him out.
“I would love to see him succeed as an opener as he is good enough to bat anywhere. But as a rival, I wnat him to come as an opener as that would give me best chance to dismiss him,” he added.
In 8 innings, Smith has scored 171 runs at an average of 28.50.
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