Australian cricket sensation Steve Smith has expressed his desire to step into the opening spot for the Aussie Test team, a move that has caught many by surprise following David Warner’s retirement.

Smith, a seasoned 34-year-old batter who currently holds the No.4 position, where he boasts an impressive average of 61.50, is eyeing the challenge of opening in Tests for the first time in his 13-year-long Test career.

While coach Andrew McDonald has expressed skepticism about the shift, Smith has found support in the form of a ringing endorsement from his teammate Marnus Labuschagne. Labuschagne believes that if given the opportunity to open, Smith would maintain an average in the 60s, showcasing his adaptability and prowess with the red ball.

“He wants it, that’s for sure. And jeez, what can’t that guy do?”

Labuschagne shared with cricket.com.au after Australia’s triumphant 3-0 series victory against Pakistan.

Labuschagne continued,

“He averages 67 at four, 62 at three, 58 at five. I’m sure if we go down that path and give it to him, he’s going to average in the 60s opening. I think it could be a good challenge for him. It could be one that gets him out and gets his beans going, out (to bat) straightaway, the ball swinging around and nipping around, he’s got a beautiful technique to combat any type of bowling. There’s probably no one you want out there more.”

However, the prospect of Smith’s transition to an opening role may need to wait, as the Australian think tank seems inclined to explore options like Marcus Harris, Matt Renshaw, or Cameron Bancroft to fill Warner’s shoes in the upcoming Test series.