Australia coach backs under-fire Smith as opener for series against India
Rubbing salt to the injury, the 34-year-old Smith could only manage 51 runs from four knocks during the recently-completed 2-0 series victory over New Zealand.
Rubbing salt to the injury, the 34-year-old Smith could only manage 51 runs from four knocks during the recently-completed 2-0 series victory over New Zealand.
Out of the 41 batters to have done so to date, his current average of 49.67 is bettered only by India's stalwart batter Virat Kohli (53.44).
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Smith's innings exemplified the qualities of a classic Test knock, displaying his expertise and patience throughout Day 1.
With Mitchel Stark gone for five runs after a superb run out by Axar Patel, Australia who were 363 for…
Both Warner and Smith, then Australia's captain and vice-captain, were banned by Cricket Australia for one year for involvement in ball-tampering during the Cape Town Test in March 2018.
Sachin Tendulkar also termed Marnus Labuschagne as special on the sidelines of Bushfire Cricket Bash where he will be coaching Ponting XI.
In the ICC Test rankings, Smith is currently the number two ranked batsman while Labuschagne is at the third place.
Smith made an unbeaten 66 off 40 deliveries.
Smith and Philippe will play together for the Sydney Sixers on Thursday night in the Big Bash League (BBL).