Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden opposes the idea of Steven Smith opening in Tests, arguing it’s “crazy” to move him from a position where he’s been so successful. Hayden, who held the record for Australia’s most prolific Test opener until David Warner surpassed him in 2023, insists that the top three batting positions in Test cricket should be “protected.”
“Steven Smith averages 57 in Test cricket with 32 centuries,” Hayden said at the CEAT cricket rating awards in Mumbai. “But the role of an opener is very different from that of a middle-order batsman. Challenging conditions, like those in New Zealand, quickly show how tough opening can be.”
Smith first opened in Tests earlier this year, during two home Tests against the West Indies and another two in New Zealand. He struggled in these matches, scoring 12 or less in five out of eight innings and averaging just 28.50, compared to his impressive averages of 67.07 at No. 3 and 61.50 at No. 4.
Hayden believes moving Smith down the order would be a better choice, preserving his strengths and respecting the Australian first-class system that has traditionally prepared players for specific roles. If Smith moves back to his regular spot, Australia will need a new partner for Usman Khawaja at the top, following Warner’s retirement.
Hayden acknowledged Warner’s impact on the team and the challenge of finding a replacement, mentioning options like Cameron Bancroft and Matt Renshaw. Smith recently expressed uncertainty about his role for the India Tests, while selectors Pat Cummins and George Bailey have hinted at sticking with the current top six for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
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