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As Australia prepare for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 series against India, the absence of Cameron Green due to surgery has opened up new opportunities in the opening batting position. With Steve Smith‘s return to the middle order, the selectors have several contenders vying for the crucial role of opening the innings.
Cameron Green ruled out of the BGT 2024-25
Green has been sidelined from the BGT after undergoing surgery, which is expected to keep him out of action for six months. This setback not only rules him out of the Test series against India but also the upcoming February tour of Sri Lanka and the ICC Champions Trophy. Green’s absence raises concerns about his availability for the next Indian Premier League (IPL) season as well. He reported experiencing lower back pain during the recent tour of the UK, with scans ultimately revealing a stress fracture that necessitated the surgery.
Steve Smith set to return to middle order
Following David Warner‘s retirement after the Sydney Test last summer, Smith briefly took on the role of Test opener. However, he didn’t find enough success in the new role. Now, national selection chair George Bailey has confirmed that Smith will return to his traditional position in the middle order, primarily batting at No. 4. This decision leaves a vacancy at the top of the order, prompting a focus on the Australia A series, where various top-order batters will compete for the opener position.
Also READ: Ian Chappell cautions Australia against moving Travis Head up the order for Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25
3 contenders for the opener position for BGT 2024-25
Sam Konstas
Teenage sensation Sam Konstas has emerged as a strong contender for the opener role after his impressive performance in the Sheffield Shield, where he scored twin centuries. At just 19 years old, Konstas has made a significant impact in his fifth first-class match, becoming the youngest player to achieve this feat in a Shield game since a young Ricky Ponting did so in 1993. His exceptional talent and recent form make him a compelling choice for the Australian selectors.
Marcus Harris
Marcus Harris has also put his name forward for the opening spot, beginning the season with an impressive 29th first-class century, scoring 143 against Tasmania at Junction Oval. His experience and proven track record in domestic cricket make him a viable option as Australia looks to strengthen its batting lineup for the series against India.
Cameron Bancroft
Cameron Bancroft, while having a disappointing outing against Queensland—failing to score in both innings—remains in the mix for the opener position. His experience at the international level and prior contributions to the Australian team could still see him considered as a backup option, depending on how he performs in the upcoming matches.
