Former Australia skipper Mark Taylor believes that Cameron Green’s injury could open the door for Cameron Bancroft’s return to the Test team for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India. Green is likely to miss the series due to a back injury, leaving a crucial spot open in the Australian batting lineup.
Taylor, a renowned figure in Australian cricket, sees this as a potential opportunity for Bancroft. Bancroft was initially considered a strong contender to open the innings after David Warner’s retirement earlier this year, but the selectors opted for Green instead, pushing Steve Smith to the opening position. However, Smith’s performance at the top of the order wasn’t convincing, and Taylor expects him to return to his usual number four spot.
With Green out, Taylor advocates for Bancroft’s inclusion, suggesting he could partner with Usman Khawaja to form a formidable opening pair. “I’d love to see a right-handed opening batsman get the opportunity. And to me at the moment … I would have Bancroft penciled in alongside (Usman) Khawaja,” Taylor said on Wide World of Sports.
Bancroft, who served a nine-month ban for his involvement in the 2018 ball-tampering incident, has been in impressive form in the Sheffield Shield, consistently topping the run-scoring charts for the past two years. His recent form and experience make him a strong contender for the Test team.
Taylor also acknowledged the potential of young opener Sam Konstas, who has shown promise with back-to-back centuries in the Sheffield Shield. However, Taylor’s preference for Bancroft, given his experience and consistency, points towards a potential return for the seasoned opener.
The five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series is scheduled to begin on November 22nd in Perth. The selection of the Australian squad for the series will be keenly watched, with Bancroft’s potential return generating significant interest among fans and pundits alike.
