Steve Smith to play in New Zealand Tests?

Question

Will all-rounder Steven Smith play for Australia in their upcoming Test series against New Zealand? He’s been named in the 14-man squad.

Answer 1

It surely has to be a choice between Marcus North – who didn’t show much with the bat against Pakistan – and Smith, who in the words of Australia’s chairman of selectors, Andrew Hilditch “has had an excellent Shield season, including a big century against Tasmania recently, and of course has already demonstrated his ability to cope with the pressure of international cricket. He adds great flexibility to the squad with his exciting stroke-play, leg-spin bowling and gifted fielding.”

If the selectors do choose Smith though, it needs to be on the premise that he’ll play in both Tests and get the chance to find his feet. By contrast, if they go with North in the opening Test it’s more likely to be on the basis that if he doesn’t perform, then Smith is there to replace him in the second one.