Langer also hints at playing two all-rounders against India.
Australia head coach Justin Langer has confirmed Steve Smith’s availability for the upcoming three-match One Day International (ODI) series against India starting on Friday, 27 November, in Sydney.
Smith, the world’s no.1 Test batsman, was rested for their last successful ODI series against England after suffering a concussion in training, as Australia opted to play three batting all-rounders in Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stonis and the tourists won the series 2-1.
Well, this time against the tough opponents India, Langer said Australia would like to continue with that combination with only change in Smith for injured Marsh for the upcoming three-match ODI series.
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Langer told reporters on Wednesday (November 25) ahead of first ODI, “We'll probably lean that way (swapping Smith for Marsh) but what we did learn and we've talked about it in our foundation for one-day cricket, we really like that extra bowling option.”
The head coach also admitted that they are suffering from a “good headache” finalizing the playing XI for the India series having got great depth in Australian cricket and especially with Smith’s return.
He further explained, “In England, we had Mitch Marsh, Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell being able to get us at least 10 overs. We like that combination, having that extra all-rounder. Obviously Stevey will come straight back in, there's some headaches but they're some good headaches.”
Langer signed off by saying, “There's a lot of talk about selection giving you headaches but I promise they're good headaches to have. We've got great depth in Australian cricket, there's lots of competition in Australian cricket at the moment, it's exactly how we want it. Keep the guys in the first XI on their toes, keep the guys just outside banging so hard to get an opportunity. They're good headaches to have and I'm sure we'll come up with the right combination on Friday and beyond.”
(With ANI Inputs)