‘If not the best in the world, he’s up there with it’ – Steve Smith on Mitchell Starc’s inclusion in the opening Ashes Test

Vice-captain Steve Smith had Mitchell Starc’s back while speaking on the fast bowler’s selection for the opening Ashes Test, starting Wednesday, December 6 at The Gabba in Brisbane. On Sunday, December 5, the hosts named their playing eleven while Joe Root and Co. wanted to have a closer look at the conditions before taking a final call.

Starc has been in and out of the Test team due to his lack of performances on a consistent basis. However, Smith, who returned to Australia’s leadership role after more than two and half years, lauded the speedster as one of the best in the world.

Steve Smith puts forth his opinions

“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 was quoted as saying to the press.

All-rounder Cameron Green was also jubilant after getting picked for the Test. Green put in impressive performances on Test debut against India last year. Moreover, earlier this year, he also racked up his highest first-class score of 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,” Green said.

The Aussies also went for Travis Head to bat at No.5 instead of the experienced 34-year-old Usman Khawaja. Pat Cummins, who replaced Tim Paine as the Aussie Test skipper, put forth the rationale behind the decision.

“The selectors make the call, both really good options, in really strong form. The experience from Uzzie is great and we are really lucky to have that but Trav has been playing a lot of us in the last couple of years and has churned out runs,” Cummins said.

The first Test is also set to mark the Test debut of Alex Carey, who has already played quite a few ODIs and T20Is for the national team.

Australia XI

Marcus Harris, David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.