Australian cricket from yesteryears has been very particular about batting positions. Adam Gilchrist, Ian Healy, Greg Chappel—all the legends have batted at No 4 for the baggy green. But now in the ongoing series between India and Australia, there is a new headache for visiting skipper Steven Smith. His number 6 has not delivered throughout the series and that fear looms large for Smith.
As Mitchell Marsh has left the squad following a shoulder injury, there is a spot vacant for the taking. But who, that is the question! There are two names that have been floated by the Australian staff that are solid middle order batsman, Marcus Stoinis and the dangerous Glenn Maxwell, apart from Usman Khwaja and Ashton Agar. Maxwell looks to have his noses in front in this race and we will tell you why.
Reasons that will work in Maxy’s favour:
- Maxwell will also bowl on the Ranchi pitch, which will offer spin. This will strengthen their spinning unit as well.
- On pitches where it is unplayable and the ball is spinning a mile, it is best to counter attack and get quick runs rather than look to survive. Who better than Maxwell to counter-attack?
- Maxwell knows the Indian conditions better than the rest—thanks to Indian Premier League.
- He has been in the Australian mix for quite some time, hence camaraderie will help. He can mingle with the unit better than the rest.
- Maxwell can improvise like only he can and that will augur healthy the Australian unit who will start as underdogs at Ranchi.
Whoever gets a green signal and the nod will have to be at their best if they want to snatch the advantage from the home team!
