sydney
After winning the five-Test series against India 3-1 and making it to the final of the World Test Championship (WTC), Australia’s next focus will be on the tour of Sri Lanka for two Tests later this month. Following the retirement of opener David Warner, Australia struggled to find a suitable partner for Usman Khawaja until the arrival of Sam Constas, who played the last two Tests against India and scored a half-century on his international debut. Before the start of the series against India, Matt Renshaw, Cameron Bancroft, Marcus Harris, Nathan McSweeney and Constas were discussed as possible opening options. However, only McSweeney and Constas got a chance to play in the series.
Matthew Renshaw claimed he was not considered for the role of Australia Test opener. However, as selection for the Sri Lanka tour approaches, he is expected to have an edge over others due to his previous red-ball experience in the subcontinent.
“I probably wouldn’t say I got caught up in the race for the opener. I don’t think I was in it at all,” Renshaw told SEN Mornings. “I’m probably a few guys away (to be selected), but most of my tests have been in Asia, so I have plenty of experience there if needed.”
“I’m trying to play my cricket the way I want to and I’ve really enjoyed it. (I’m) feeling really good about my cricket and my batting and obviously there are aspirations there, but I’m really enjoying my cricket right now.”
While discussing the future of the Australian Test team, Renshaw believes that no player can open, and this would be his preferred position if he returns to the team.
“Opening is a specialist position, it is one of the toughest jobs in the world game,” he said. If Steve Smith goes to the top and he doesn’t have the experience he needs, you can say it is quite difficult. I think if I get a chance, I can bat anywhere, but I will keep opening for Queensland because when you are successful, I get the most satisfaction.” The first Test between Australia and Sri Lanka will be played in Galle from January 29.
