"I know he would've had time just to go away, make some little technical adjustments, and if he opens and he makes those little adjustments, he can be incredibly successful as an opening batter knowing the incredible skill that he's got.

Former all-rounder Shane Watson has confidence in Steve Smith's ability to excel as an opener despite recent form struggles. Watson also highlighted the resilience of Australia's fast bowlers ahead of the demanding Test series.

Cheteshwar Pujara played a crucial role in India's historic Test series wins in Australia in 2018-19 and 2020-21, but the Asian giants won't feel his absence much, former all-rounder Shane Watson said.

Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson has backed Steve Smith as the opener as the clock ticks down to India’s tour Down Under for the gruelling five-Test series for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy later this year.

Former Test opener Shane Watson says Steve Smith can still be a success at the top of the order for Australia and should avoid the “safety blanket” of moving back to his preferred position at No.4.

Smith has scored 171 runs as opener in Tests at an average of 28 with half of those runs coming in one innings against West Indies earlier this year.

Former Aussie opener Shane Watson supports Steve Smith opening in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy despite recent struggles. Watson believes Smith has the necessary skills and just needs minor technique adjustments.