Australia coach Andrew McDonald believes that the top six batters from last season’s final Test are likely to start in the upcoming five-match series against India. However, he emphasized that the order of the batting lineup may change, and no final decisions have been made yet.
Steve Smith, who opened the batting after David Warner’s Test retirement midway through last season, may not retain that spot. McDonald stated that while they are considering various options, Smith’s position as an opener is not confirmed. He mentioned that discussions about the batting order and other team combinations have already begun in Sydney.
McDonald acknowledged the impact of any changes to Smith’s position. If Smith moves down the order, another player will have to take up the opening spot. He highlighted Cameron Green’s success at number four, where he scored 174 not out against New Zealand in the last series. This factor will play a role in their decision-making process.
The coach reassured that regardless of the final lineup order, Smith, Green, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head, and Mitchell Marsh are all expected to be part of the playing XI. McDonald reiterated the selectors’ faith in picking the best six batters and ensuring they are well-prepared for the series.
Looking ahead, McDonald mentioned that Australia will prioritize the India series, which begins in Perth on November 22. The team may rest some Test players during the preceding white-ball series against Pakistan to allow them to play in the Sheffield Shield and prepare for red-ball cricket.
The highly anticipated series will continue with Tests in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.
