Marnus Labuschagne revealed there was no chance of anyone beating Steve Smith once he set his sights on replacing David Warner at the top of the Australian Test batting order.
Smith was confirmed as Warner’s opening replacement following his retirement for the upcoming Test series against the West Indies.
Cameron Bancroft and Marcus Harris were snubbed with Matt Renshaw named in the squad, but Smith will open with Cameron Green to return to the side at No.4.
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How Smith won race, & Bancroft snubbed! | 04:48
Speaking ahead of the Heat’s BBL clash with the Scorchers, Labuschagne revealed Smith’s hilarious text regarding his new role in the Test team.
“No I just got a message just saying, ‘I’m the opener’,” Labuschagne said with a laugh on Fox Cricket.
However, Labuschagne is in no doubt Smith will succeed in his new spot as he has in every other position he has played in for Australia throughout his illustrious career.
“I have got no doubt he is going to be a fabulous opener for Australia,” Labuschagne said.
“His record in every position he has batted in is unbelievable and I have got no doubt it is going to continue that way.
“It is obviously a little bit of a different shake-up to our side with Cameron Green probably going to slot in at No.4, so it is going to be a nice unique change.”
Labuschagne was pressed on whether he threw his own hat in the ring for the opening role, but revealed Smith threw his weight around before things could get that far.
“Look I was always happy to do whatever the team needed, but that conversation didn’t really happen,” Labuschagne said.
“Steve beat me to the gun. He really wanted it, so I am happy for him.
“I’ll stay at No.3 and we will see how the change goes.”
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