• Source:JND
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Former Australia captain Kim Hughes could not digest the news that Steve Smith will open innings in the Test after David Warner's retirement. Smith was not the front-runner for the role but the management went ahead with ace batter despite three specialised openers waiting in the list to fill for Warner.

Hughes batted for Cameron Bancroft's selection as an opener as the in-form batter has been snubbed again from the Australia Test team return. The veteran batter lashed at the selection committee for overlooking Bancroft as he does not play for New South Wales.

"I nearly vomited. I've got no doubts in my mind that if Cameron Bancroft played for New South Wales, he'd be in the Test side. He is in his prime," Hughes told WA Sports Talk.

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The former batter said Smith should stick to his regular No.4 spot as he is struggling to get runs currently.

"Touch this, do this, do that [imitates Smith]... never want to leave when I am given out. He's like a petulant kid. Smith is struggling at the moment. He's been an absolute superstar, but as an opener, he is no more opener than me opening the bowling. He needs to stay at No.4, get his mojo back if you like, without all the fluff," Hughes said.

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He further added that Sheffield Shield, Australia's top-tier domestic tournament, performers should be rewarded with national call-up to motivate youngsters.

"I think the other, and a very important thing is, you must reward those that are performing well, and our Sheffield Shield competition - yes it is not as strong as it used to be when he had our Test players playing in it - it is still the competition from which you can have a look and see who is playing well," Hughes said.

Bancroft was the highest run-getter in last season of Sheffield Shield, scoring 512 runs in six games with an average of above 56.

"I just think get Bancroft in there, it also sends a message to the Shield players that if you perform, you'll get picked. You may as well go and play marbles - it would be just shattering," he added.

On his elevation as Test opener for West Indies series, Smith said he was not taken seriously when he first pitched the thought of pairing with Usman Khawaja.

"In Perth I said 'after Davey's done I'm actually keen to get up there' and I don't think they (selectors) took me seriously until I got to Sydney (for the pink Test against Pakistan) and said 'you know I'm actually being genuine here'," he said.