‘Marnus and Uzzie hated me up top’ – Steve Smith on being return as Australia’s Test number four

Steve Smith will return to number four in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy after being elevated to opener following David Warner’s retirement from Test cricket. Given that Cameron Green is now out of the India series, Australia has to bolster their middle order because he was unable to make an impression at the top of the order. Smith was reinstated at number four by head coach Andrew McDonald and captain Pat Cummins in light of this.

The star batter for Australia has said that he has never discussed going down with the team management, but when asked what his “ideal position” would be, he mentioned the number four post. The former captain went on to say that he recognises the current circumstance with Green out, but he is willing to bat for the club at any position.

“I answered (at) four when the coach and captain asked where I would prefer to bat. But I didn’t beg to move. I added that I’m content to bat wherever I am. I don’t really give a damn. I said “four” when asked where I would prefer. Last week, I noticed a couple items stating that I had asked to bat at four. That was not true.

“Yes, four would be my ideal position, but I’m happy to bat wherever you’d like me to,” Steve Smith reportedly stated.

Since Greeny (Cameron Green) is no longer there, there is undoubtedly a spot there. Additionally, based on our chats after New Zealand, I believe that Marnus and Uzi, in particular, detested me from the top down. They desired for me to follow them. They simply enjoy the—in a sense—security that is behind them. When I didn’t bat there, they were pretty harsh. That was a significant portion of it.

Also Read: ‘Going to be ducking bouncers from Australia’s No.3?’- Marnus Labuschagne wants to play on Virat Kohli’s ‘ego’

Then, of course, I have a good record at four,” he continued. Smith said, however, that he relished his experience batting at the top and feels he would be successful there if given more chances.