Usman Khawaja pushes for Steve Smith's return to No. 4 spot ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Australia's opening batter Usman Khawaja has voiced his opinion that Steve Smith should return to the No. 4 position in Australia's Test lineup, citing his exceptional record in that spot. 

Speaking to Fox Cricket, Khawaja argued that Smith's prior success batting at No. 4 makes him a crucial asset in that role.

“I’m not sure what the top six is going to be this summer. I’ve always loved Steve Smith batting at No. 4, I haven’t shied away from that. I know Steve Smith can score runs at one, two, three, four, five, or six, but the man averages 60 at four, so my preference has always been Smudge (Steve Smith) at four," Khawaja said.

Khawaja elaborated on his point, explaining that Smith's effectiveness could be compromised when he opens the innings, as it exposes him to the new ball and gives opposition bowlers an early opportunity to dismiss one of the world's best batters. 

“I love seeing him come in at No. 4 … you get two wickets, and who do you get walking in? The best batsman in the world. When you put him up to open, I feel like you’re kind of giving them a chance to get at him early,” he said.

Steve Smith has long been Australia's designated No. 4 batter in Test cricket, where he has accumulated runs at an impressive average of over 60. 

However, following David Warner's retirement, Smith expressed a desire to open the innings, a move that the Australian team management supported.

Despite this change, Smith's performance as an opener has been underwhelming. In eight Test innings in this position, he has managed only 171 runs at an average of 28.50. 

His struggles have been evident against teams like West Indies and New Zealand, with the exception of a resilient 91* in the day-night Test at Gabba against West Indies. Nevertheless, Australia lost that match, with Shamar Joseph's outstanding bowling playing a pivotal role.

Despite Smith's recent challenges at the top of the order, Australia's chief selectors George Bailey has confirmed that Smith is unlikely to move back to No. 4 for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India.