T20 World Cup Role for Steve Smith in Doubt as Australia Reveals Top Order Batting Plan

With the T20 World Cup looming, the Australian cricket team has unveiled its likely top-order batting lineup, leaving role of Steve Smith in Australian team uncertain.

Captain Mitchell Marsh, recently crowned the Allan Border Medal winner, confirmed a “pretty set” top three during a press conference ahead of the crucial three-match series against New Zealand starting Wednesday.

Marsh, expected to lead Australia in this series and potentially at the World Cup, will retain his number three position. Alongside him will be the confirmed opening pair of David Warner, who has announced his retirement, and Travis Head, who has impressed in recent outings.

The top order is “pretty set” for Australia considering T20 World Cup 

This star-studded top order casts a shadow on Smith’s inclusion, with Marsh remaining coy when questioned about the former captain’s role.

“You’ll just have to wait and see,” he told reporters, highlighting the team’s flexibility in experimenting before the World Cup. “I think our top-order is pretty set… Head and Warner have been amazing, I dare say that will be the top three.”

Marsh’s praise extended to middle-order batsman Tim David, whose aggressive style has earned him a crucial role in the team.

David is likely to occupy the “floating” position throughout the series and the World Cup, with Marsh lauding his impact: “Players like Tim are rare… We’re lucky to have him. He’s become a phenomenal player in that role, and there’s no doubt he’s going to play a big part for us.”

The captaincy role also remains unclear with the return of Pat Cummins to the T20 format. While Marsh enjoys his current leadership, he emphasizes a wait-and-see approach: “I’m not auditioning… I’m very proud to captain Australia. Those decisions will be made later. I can’t wait to tell him [Cummins] what to do!”

With the top order solidified and David a key component of the middle order, Smith faces an uphill battle to secure his spot in the final World Cup squad.

His experience and versatility remain valuable assets, but the team’s current form and abundance of talent present a significant challenge.

The New Zealand series will be a crucial test for Smith, offering him a platform to showcase his value and potentially solidify his place in Australia’s T20 World Cup campaign.