Michael Clarke backs Cameron Bancroft for opening role in Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has made a strong case for Cameron Bancroft to be included in the playing XI for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India. Clarke believes that Bancroft's experience makes him the ideal candidate to open the batting alongside Usman Khawaja in the five-match Test series at home.

Bancroft's selection has sparked significant discussion among cricket fans and experts, especially with competition heating up for the opening spot. While some have suggested giving younger players like Marcus Harris or Sam Konstas a chance, Clarke advocates for Bancroft's proven track record in domestic cricket.

Clarke highlighted Bancroft’s impressive performances, pointing out that he was the top scorer in two consecutive Sheffield Shield seasons. Despite this, Bancroft was surprisingly left out of the lineup when David Warner retired earlier this year. Instead, Australia opted for an unconventional batting order, placing all-rounder Cameron Green at No. 4 and moving Steve Smith to the top, which left Bancroft sidelined.

In a recent appearance on Sky’s Big Sports Breakfast, Clarke stressed the importance of consistency and reliability. “I don't think it's fair to pick someone on two games. This is also what I've said about Sam Konstas as well. I think he's a very talented player, and I love that he's started the season very well, but just because you get two hundreds doesn't mean you jump someone that's scored 12 hundreds in the past four years, like Bancroft or Harris,” he stated.

While 20-year-old Konstas has garnered attention for his strong start in first-class cricket, Clarke believes that Bancroft and Harris should be prioritized due to their extensive experience. He noted, “They've played first-class cricket for a long time; they've earned the right to be next in line.”

Clarke also expressed confidence that Australian captain Pat Cummins and the national selectors have likely made their choice on who will partner Khawaja at the top of the order. He dismissed the notion that the Australia A vs. India A matches would serve as a last-minute audition for the opener role.

“I would be very disappointed if I were captain of the Australian cricket team and I didn't know who was opening the batting right now in that first Test match,” Clarke concluded.