Question for Chris

[GrahamB]

Is there a penalty on performance for an opening batsman playing elsewhere in the batting order?

Likewise, is there a penalty for playing a non-designated opener as an opener?

If there is a penalty in either case, how much of a penalty is it?

[Chris Child]

Opening batsmen have an increased ability against the new ball, which is balanced by a slightly lower ability as the ball gets older.

[GrahamB]

Opening batsmen have an increased ability against the new ball, which is balanced by a slightly lower ability as the ball gets older.

Thanks for the answer.