England's cricket team has made a shocking decision ahead of their Champions Trophy opener against Australia, with wicket-keeper Jamie Smith set to bat at number three, ahead of star players Joe Root, Harry Brook, and Jos Buttler.
This unexpected move has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world, with many fans and pundits left wondering what prompted the team's management to make such a bold call.
Smith, who has been in impressive form with the bat in recent matches, will be tasked with anchoring England's innings along with the opening pair, and his ability to rotate the strike and score boundaries will be crucial in setting a strong foundation for the team.
Root, Brook, and Buttler, on the other hand, will have to adjust to batting lower down the order, which could potentially impact their ability to score big runs and take the game away from the opposition.
The decision to promote Smith to the number three spot is likely to be a tactical one, with the team's management looking to capitalize on his current form and create a strong platform for the rest of the batsmen to build on.
Despite the surprise move, England's captain has backed the decision, citing Smith's impressive performances in recent matches and his ability to play a variety of roles with the bat.
As England takes on Australia in their Champions Trophy opener, all eyes will be on Smith to see if he can justify his promotion to the number three spot and help his team get off to a winning start in the tournament.
The match promises to be an exciting one, with both teams boasting a wealth of talented players and a strong desire to make a statement in the competition.
One thing is for sure - England's decision to bat Smith at three will be under intense scrutiny, and if it pays off, it could be a masterstroke that sets the tone for the rest of the tournament.