New Delhi: Australia's dominance in Test cricket continues against the West Indies and skipper Steven Smith needs to be lauded for his sensational captaincy coupled with starry performances from his side.
Australia have mastered their collective performance from where it left off against New Zealand. Steve Smith has ensured his leadership qualities keeps galvanizing his troops who have looked superb as an unit.
Australia's batting have raised the level of their play with most of their batsmen coming thick with runs and the consistency has been appealing. Joe Burns, Adam Voges, Usman Khawaja and left out Shaun Marsh has been the carriers of runs alongside Steve Smith.
Smith has looked like a person who knows what he wants from his players and has clarified that with ease. It looks like a happy camp to be in.
Steve Smith wasn't dismissed over two innings in the 2nd Test against the West Indies after mustering scores of 134* and 70*. His fellow batters saw the side register four centuries in the first innings. After the series victory against New Zealand, Australia have closed in on another victory against the Windies as their resurgence speaks volumes.
The positive headache of leaving out Shaun Marsh for the mesmerizing Usman Khawaja, shows the side having plenty of options who are ready to step when it matters.
Adam Voges has been one such warrior in the side who has had a fantastic 2015 to take a grip in that middle order. The opening combination of David Warner and Joe Burns has been lively with the beauty of Khawaja and Smith guiding the side in the middle.
If the batting has been noteworthy, the bowling too has been top class, Josh Hazlewood has stepped up to show he can be the leader in absence of Mitchell Starc and following the retirement of Mitchell Johnson. Nathan Lyon's effectiveness in picking wickets as a spinner has given an aptitude of trust for the skipper. Mitchell Marsh meanwhile, has looked impressive as a bowler and although his batting hasn't been good enough there is hope he will chip in.
Also James Pattinson who claimed four wickets in the first innings against Windies at the MCG, has highlighted Australia's powerful pace attack which has shone collectively.
Usman Khawaja has been a perfect example of somebody who is enjoying fearless cricket amidst some rich form. Smith who won the ICC Cricketer of the year and ICC Test batsman of the year, has taken over the mantle to lead Australia into bright days.
Smith's own form has been one of the main reasons for Australia's success in recent times,
Australia will play New Zealand again in February 2016 and will look to keep their guard strong. Smith for now can enjoy the festive cheer in closing end of 2015 as the new year sets to begin soon.
