Who should replace David Warner as Australia's Test opener? Marnus Labuschagne backs star player to excel in role

Australia, who host West Indies for a two-match Test series from January 17, will play their first red-ball game without David Warner in years. The southpaw retired from the format following Australia's recent 3-0 whitewash against Pakistan on home soil. Despite many players being considered for the opening role, it will be difficult for the management to replace one of the greatest openers in the history of cricket. 

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Among the candidates to fill Warner's big shoes, Steve Smith is the top contender after the veteran middle-order batter put his hands up for a new challenge. Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head have reportedly rejected the offer, while Marcus Harris and Cameron Bancroft are the other options available.

Although Smith has recently opened in the shortest format of the game, he has never opened in Test cricket. It would be a big move if the selectors decide to give him a new role despite his outstanding stats in the middle order. There were mixed opinions after Smith expressed his desire to change the batting position. 

However, star batter Marnus Labuschagne has backed the 34-year-old as the new Australian Test opener. The No.3 batter believes Smith has the perfect technique to meet the challenges posed by the new red ball. He also said that the 'Fab 4' batter will average more than 60 when he opens.

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“There’s probably no one you want out there more. He averages 67 at four, 62 at three, 58 at five.  I’m sure if we go down that path and give it to him, he’s going to average in the 60s opening," Labuschagne said. 

“It (moving ball on a green pitch) could be one that gets him out and gets his beans going, out (to bat) straightaway, ball swinging around and nipping around, but he’s got a beautiful technique to combat any type of bowling,” he added. 

I’m happy to do what the team needs, but... - Labuschagne opens up about his batting position 

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Labuschagne said the media had also discussed his name in the opener's role. While mentioning that he is comfortable batting at number three, the right-hander also said that he is ready to do whatever the team wants from him. 

"I’m happy to do what the team needs, but I do love batting at three, I love the variety of the role. At the moment it could be anyone… I’ve seen the media throwing around Travis Head, throwing around me, obviously the three openers outside of the squad, Cameron Bancroft, Matt Renshaw and Marcus Harris. Smudge (Steve Smith) seems like the lead frontrunner, the one that really wants it," he said.