THREE IS THE MAGIC NUMBER

Buttler backs Smith to thrive in new batting role after surprise promotion

- DAVID CHARLESWORTH

JOS BUTTLER has backed "incredible talent" Jamie Smith to thrive in his surprise promotion to No.3 in the batting order for England's Champions Trophy clash against Australia.

Smith has ousted Phil Salt as wicketkeeper for England's tournament opener in Lahore today and is carded at first drop, despite never having batted higher than No.5 in 18 international appearances.

He averages 22.16 with a high score of 49 in seven ODIs but has impressed as wicketkeeper-batter in Tests since making his debut last July.

And Buttler has backed the 24-yearold, who has only batted once at No.3 for Surrey in List A cricket, to thrive in his new role in another gamble taken by head coach Brendon McCullum (inset).