‘I nearly vomited’ – Former Australia cricketer extremely unhappy with Steve Smith opening in Tests

After the retirement of David Warner from Tests, Steve Smith has been promoted as the Test opener for Australia for the time being. In his 105-match Test career, Smith is yet to open the batting. The right-hander has batted in positions ranging from number three to number nine. The decision to prove the former ODI captain has attracted mixed reactions.

Not to forget, Cameron Bancroft, who has been left out despite getting the most runs in the last couple of seasons. Meanwhile, former Australia player Kim Hughes made some brutal remarks on Smith opening the batting in Tests.

“I nearly vomited. I’ve got no doubts in my mind that if Cameron Bancroft played for New South Wales, he’d be in the Test side. He is in his prime,” he told WA Sports.

Steve Smith is like a petulant kid: Kim Hughes

“Touch this, do this, do that [imitates Smith]… never want to leave when I am given out. He’s like a petulant kid. Smith is struggling at the moment. He’s been an absolute superstar, but as an opener, he is no more opener than me opening the bowling. He needs to stay at No.4, get his mojo back if you like, without all the fluff,” Hughes said on News10 Australia.

“I think the other, and a very important thing is, you must reward those that are performing well, and our Sheffield Shield competition – yes it is not as strong as it used to be when he had our Test players playing in it – it is still the competition from which you can have a look and see who is playing well. I just think get Bancroft in there, it also sends a message to the Shield players that if you perform, you’ll get picked. You may as well go and play marbles – it would be just shattering.”

On the other hand, Smith’s former captain, Michael Clarke has supported the move from Cricket Australia selectors.