Ashes 2021: Steve Smith says “If not the best in the world, he’s up there with it”

Ashes 2021: Steve Smith, the new vice-captain of Australia’s Test team, has defended Mitchell Starc’s inclusion in the first Ashes Test. For the match in Brisbane, the hosts chose their starting XI, which included the left-arm seamer.

Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and skipper Pat Cummins were the team’s customary pace combination. Given Jhye Richardson’s superb recent returns from Sheffield Shield matches at The Gabba, the demand to replace Starc was intense.

“He was bowling with some proper pace and swinging the ball late. And we know when he does that he’s, if not the best in the world, he’s up there with it.” Smith said.

Tim Paine

For the first time since the notorious Sandpaper gate, Smith will be back in a leadership role in national colors. Following Tim Paine’s resignation, Cummins was named captain, while Smith was assigned to the vacant vice-captain position.

Following a promising first series against India, Cameron Green has cemented his place as an all-rounder in Australia’s Test team. During his time with the first squad, the 22-year-old has improved his batting. Earlier this year, he set a new career best for first-class points with 251.

“As a young guy coming into the team it’s actually a really good time, got a lot of experience around you to help you out, so I’m looking forward to it.” he said

Another stumbling block in the selection process was the matchup between Usman Khawaja and Travis Head. In the duel of the left-hande

d pitchers, the latter was given the upper hand and would bat at No. 5 for the squad.

Read more: Justin Langer says “I’m not sure we’ve seen the end of him” in Ashes 2021

Visit also: India vs New Zealand: Sachin Tendulkar says “I don’t believe there is a technological issue”

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