The Australian cricketing landscape is abuzz with discussions surrounding the opening partnership for the upcoming Test series against India. Former Australian captain, Michael Clarke, has thrown his weight behind Cameron Bancroft‘s inclusion in the Test squad and a potential return to the opening slot.
Bancroft, a seasoned campaigner in domestic cricket, has consistently impressed with his performances in the Sheffield Shield. His stellar run in the competition, culminating in being the leading run-scorer, has made him a strong contender for the coveted opening spot. However, despite his consistent form, Bancroft found himself overlooked for the opening slot earlier this year when David Warner retired. The selectors opted for all-rounder Cameron Green at No. 4 and promoted Steve Smith to the top of the order.
Michael Clarke opts for experience against India
Clarke believes that experience and consistency should be paramount in selecting the opening pair. He argued that Bancroft’s proven track record in domestic cricket and his ability to perform under pressure should give him an edge over younger contenders like Sam Konstas.
Speaking on Sky’s Big Sports Breakfast, Clarke said, “This is also what I’ve said about Sam Konstas as well. I think he’s a very talented player and I love that he’s started the season very well, but just because you get two hundreds doesn’t mean you jump someone that’s scored 12 hundreds in the past four years, like Bancroft or Harris.”
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Clarke appreciates the talented youngster
While Clarke acknowledged the immense potential of 20-year-old Konstas, who has made waves with his performances, he emphasized that players like Bancroft and Harris, with their proven track records, deserve to be prioritized.
“They’ve played first-class cricket for a long time, they’ve earned the right to be next in line,” he added. Clarke suggested that Konstas’ opportunity would likely come soon, particularly if Usman Khawaja decides to retire at the end of the series.
Clarke’s confidence on the Australian skipper
Clarke also expressed his belief that Australian captain Pat Cummins and the selectors have already made a decision on who will partner Khawaja at the top of the order, especially after Green was ruled out of the series. He dismissed speculation of a ‘bat-off’ between the contenders during the Australia A vs India A matches, suggesting that the decision has likely been made.
As the highly anticipated five-Test series between Australia and India looms large, the question of who will open the batting remains a topic of intense speculation. Clarke’s endorsement of Bancroft adds another layer of intrigue to the debate, and it remains to be seen if the selectors will heed his advice.
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