Ricky Ponting believes Australia should consider moving Steve Smith to the top of the order at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, as the team grapples with key injuries ahead of the tournament.
Ponting, an ICC Hall of Famer and former Australia captain, discussed the potential shift on The ICC Review, highlighting Smith’s white-ball credentials and the team’s selection dilemma.
With regular captain Pat Cummins, frontline pacers Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, and all-rounders Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh ruled out, Australia faces multiple changes heading into the tournament.
While Travis Head is expected to retain his spot as an opener, Ponting believes selectors could be considering Smith as his partner when Australia faces England in their opening match on 22 February in Lahore.
Smith has never opened in 151 ODI innings but has excelled in the role in domestic T20 cricket.
He notably smashed 121* off 64 balls for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League earlier this year, showcasing his ability at the top.
Australia’s decision may also hinge on Jake Fraser-McGurk, a talented but inconsistent opener.
The 21-year-old has managed just 14 runs per innings in his brief ODI career, with a top score of 41 off 18 balls.
“He's making it harder and harder (for selectors to persist with him),” Ponting said. “There's just so much talent there, but we haven’t seen it consistently yet.”
Ponting suggested Smith could provide stability at the top.
“(Smith) could be someone that could anchor this Champions Trophy at the top of the order. And you know that with the form he’s in, he's going to make big runs.”
Fraser-McGurk, however, remains a potential match-winner. “If he plays at his best… he could win a tournament for Australia,” Ponting added.
Bowling shake-up
Australia’s injury woes extend beyond batting, with their frontline pace attack sidelined.
Ponting backed left-armer Spencer Johnson to step in for Starc.
Johnson, 29, has limited international experience but impressed in a recent ODI against Sri Lanka, taking 2/44.
His 5/26 in a T20I against Pakistan last year further highlighted his potential.
“Spencer Johnson, I think, is someone that could have a real impact,” Ponting said. “He's a very similar type of bowler to Starc, and we need to make sure he’s ready to go.”
With several key decisions looming, Australia’s selectors will have tough calls to make ahead of the tournament opener.
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