Captain Smith might change the batting order

Australia captain in waiting Steve Smith has said that is considering dropping down the batting order when he assumes the leadership role in Test cricket for the Aussies.

Smith has been batting at number three since Australia toured the West Indies earlier this year but has mostly struggled on the current tour in England, although he did score a double century in the second Test at Lord's.

But with Michael Clarke retiring and a number of senior players likely to move on after the fifth Ashes Test, Smith is considering moving down the order to help ease the burden on an inexperienced middle-order.

Asked where he will put himself in the batting order, Smith said: "I haven't decided yet. I've been thinking about it and it is also going to come down to the makeup of the team and what will fit best.

"I haven't completely decided to stay at three or not, we will wait and see. I batted four at the back end of last summer when Michael was out and I was quite successful batting there as well.

"I'll just have to wait and see what the makeup of the team is and what sits best with the team and we'll see from there."

The final Ashes Test starts on 20 August at the Oval.

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