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Former Australia captain Tim Paine believes that opposition teams will take solace in Steven Smith's initial struggles as an opener but doesn't foresee any alterations for the upcoming India series.

Despite Smith's modest start in the role, Paine maintains confidence in his ability to excel. However, he admits uncertainty regarding whether Smith's new position instills the same fear in bowlers.

Smith's underwhelming tour of New Zealand saw him amass a mere 51 runs at an average of 12.75, with two lbw dismissals in Christchurch notably highlighting his challenges.

Paine acknowledges these setbacks, with Smith misjudging deliveries from Ben Sears and Matt Henry, respectively, in the first and second innings.

"I look at it, that if I was playing against Australia, where would I prefer Steve Smith to bat? If I'm the opposition, I want him opening the batting," Paine told ESPN's Around The Wicket.

"I want my best bowlers at their freshest with a brand new ball. I was in that Ashes in 2019 and went to England with him in another one and when he was at his best batting at four you just felt he couldn't get out,”

"I would love to see him succeed as an opener, I think he can, there's no doubt about that, he's good enough to bat anywhere, but as an opposition player I want him at the top of the order because that gives me the best chance of getting him out" he added.

Smith's elevation to the top to fill the vacancy created by David Warner's retirement enabled Cameron Green to return at No. 4.