Mark Taylor has advised selectors to maintain the current batting lineup until Steve Smith returns, despite some struggles from the top order. Both Cam Green and Sam Konstas have faced criticism for their performances, but Australia managed to secure a win in the first Test against the West Indies, largely due to strong bowling performances.
In the second innings, the middle-order trio of Travis Head, Beau Webster, and Alex Carey significantly contributed with each scoring around 60 runs. Taylor acknowledged the bowlers for their vital role, emphasising that victories in Test matches heavily rely on taking 20 wickets, which Australia’s bowlers excelled at.
Despite the win, Taylor admitted that the batting issues cannot be ignored. He pointed out the inconsistency in the top order, especially with Steve Smith absent due to injury, leaving the lineup relatively inexperienced. As it stands, most of Australia’s runs in Tests have been generated from positions five to seven, highlighting a reliance on the lower order.
Cam Green, in particular, has struggled at No. 3 since his return from injury, scoring only 18 and four runs in recent outings. Taylor believes that Green should continue in this position for the remainder of the tour, as he is expected to improve when Smith rejoins the team. Smith is likely to return in the fourth batting slot upon his recovery.
Taylor also expressed confidence in Konstas, a promising 19-year-old opener, suggesting that he deserves time to establish himself in the team despite being a work in progress. He supports the need to give both Konstas and Green opportunities to secure their spots, as they represent Australia’s best young talent.
As the team prepares for the second Test at the National Cricket Stadium in St George’s, Grenada, they aim to build on their performance while facing the ongoing challenge of adjusting without Smith. Following this Test, Australia will continue to compete with a third Test and a subsequent five-match T20I series.