Steve Smith Champions Coach Amid Criticism: A Call for Player Responsibility
Australian cricketer Steve Smith defends batting coach Michael Di Venuto following criticisms from Ian Healy. Smith emphasizes the importance of player responsibility and highlights Di Venuto's contribution since 2021. He stresses that the onus lies on the players to deliver performance on the field, not solely on coaching staff.
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Steve Smith, Australia's star batter, has staunchly defended batting coach Michael Di Venuto amid criticism from former Test wicketkeeper Ian Healy. Healy had suggested that the Australian top-order has seen a decline during Di Venuto's tenure. Smith joined the Australian squad for the second Test against the West Indies in Grenada, after missing the series opener due to a finger injury sustained during the World Test Championship final at Lord's.
In the first Test, Australia notably missed Smith's presence, struggling on a difficult Kensington Oval pitch. They found themselves at precarious scores of 22/3 and 65/4 in their innings. Healy, speaking on SEN Radio and quoted by the Sydney Morning Herald, criticized the national and state batting coaches, calling for greater performance as runs were sparse.
Despite the critique, Smith praised Di Venuto's efforts since mid-2021, underscoring his commitment and expertise. Smith disagrees with Healy's critique, emphasizing that players must step up and execute effectively on-field. Smith conveyed confidence in Di Venuto's methods, reiterating that the responsibility to perform lies with the players themselves.
With a dominant 159-run victory in the first Test, Australia aims to secure the series with the second Test beginning on Thursday.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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