With the highly-anticipated return of the Ashes series between England and Australia just around the corner, all eyes will be watching Australian batter Steve Smith. The new interactive series starts on 21 November. Smith, arguably the most important cog in Australia’s machinery, will probably be relied upon to assume a pivotal function in the match. During his career, he’s already scored 3,417 runs in 37 Tests against England at a staggering average of 56.01. With 12 centuries to his name in these matches, his performance has the potential to swing the result of the series from side to side.
Though Smith’s leadership will be immensely valuable as he now leads the home side into the matches that count. His blend of strength, speed and athleticism have made him the linchpin for his own team, and a key target for opponents. Under the guidance of Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum, England’s pace attack is as close to preparing for Bodyline as we’re likely to see. Like those who have previously and successfully rattled Smith in the past, they seek to unnerve him.
During the 2019 Ashes series, Smith was struck by a spear of a bouncer from England’s Jofra Archer. He took the ball right on his helmet. The blow ruled him out of the following Test at Headingley due to concussion. That’s put people on edge to his frailty to the short ball bowling plan. In the lead-up to this series, Smith has been sent clear messages to prepare for an equally harsh treatment dished out by England’s pace bowlers.
Katich isn’t the only one to have weighed in on the situation either. He imagines that Stokes and McCullum will courageously use bodyline tactics against Smith. He explained why he believes the Wood-Archer combination holds the key to England’s success.
“Their [England’s] Ashes hopes rest on whether Wood and Archer can stay fit, stay fast, and stay relentless across five brutal Tests in Australian conditions.” – Simon Katich
It would be surprising if Australia didn’t switch around their batting order. Or they can bring Marnus Labuschagne forward to open with Usman Khawaja, who is 38. Yet, Smith’s spot in the batter order does not change as he looks forward to a key three-game series.
Katich thinks the top order for Australia can be aggressive, but they need not fear, nor respect, England’s pace attack too much. He stated that players who are not in good form might struggle against aggressive bowling tactics, making it imperative for Smith to remain composed under pressure.
“The Australian top order won’t be fearful of the Wood-Archer combination. Respectful, yes, but not afraid.” – Simon Katich
Smith’s historical performance against England serves as yet another point of intrigue heading into the always highly competitive Ashes series. His proven history puts a bigger target on him for defensive bowlers who will do anything they can to get him out of rhythm and shaken up. So while Australia attempts to retain its Ashes title, Smith’s talent to work his means round England’s onslaught will likely be key.
It’s not just Smith going all out in preparation, other players are taking their skills up a notch ahead of the series. Ben Duckett praised Smith, noting his rigorous training regimen as he prepares for what could be a challenging series ahead.
“We’ve been out here for a few days and he’s been in beast mode. He’s been running, bowling two spells, batting for two hours. The way he trains these days is something I’ve never seen before. He’s an absolute beast.” – Ben Duckett
Smith to address the return of the focus on his exposed knack for being got by the bouncers. If history is any indicator, he’ll meet the moment and hit a new high gear.
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