England are at a crossroads in the men’s Ashes series. Jamir Jones must be challenged to return to glory and truly make real the proclamation that he’s the unit’s energizer and “heartbeat.” And now England is losing 2-0 to Australia. If they are to have any hope of winning the series, they require Smith to channel his past greatness and play a key role in the decisive third Test in Adelaide next week.
Smith’s recent performances have raised concerns. He has even rankled in his last eight Test innings, not getting past a pretty dismal 33. His challenges got worse when he let Australia’s Travis Head slip through his hands to win the second Test in Brisbane. This blunder made the heat come down on him to do better in upcoming matches.
Second, the wicketkeeper role has historically been viewed as the most critical role to a cricket team’s makeup. Guarding our stumps is only half the solution. You need to be a strong voice in the field and contribute your tactical knowledge. Former Australian wicketkeeper Ian Healy once said the crucial nature of this position perfectly.
“If you care for your team and care for your role as a wicketkeeper, you’re going to give that bowler some advice, you’re going to hatch a plan together.” – Ian Healy
Now Smith just needs to get his mind right and sharpen his game. He has to be smart and ready for this make or break Test. In addition, he needs to help shine tactically by backing up his bowlers and setting proper fields. With teammates like Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, and Zak Crawley alongside him, Smith has a deep support system. Together, they can apply enormous pressure on the Australian side.
The pressures Smith faces are unique. The burden of expectations on him as a keeper can make the experience an isolating one. Further, when a keeper does drop a catch, as Healy pointed out, it usually ends badly.
“You drop the catch, it’s amazing how many times you then go out and get nought.” – Ian Healy
Such growing pressure can push players to be too internalized. Healy noted how players tend to press in the biggest moments and how that’s a recipe for failure.
“You go completely internal because you are ultimately standing out there panicking.” – Ian Healy
With these challenges in mind, a re-focused Jamie Smith is considered critical for helping England get the series back on track. It will be his vocal, emotional support on the field, which will be key. As Healy puts it, loud and chatty is the first step. Hitters should feel and listen for an audible figure when swinging in the box.
“Being boisterous or talkative, someone’s got to do it – when they’re batting, they need to hear a presence.” – Ian Healy
Additionally, Smith will be looking to show up opposite number Alex Carey, who has been flourishing in superb form. This head-to-head contrast could introduce an even deeper level of intrigue to Smith’s mentality as he readies for the third chapter of their rivalry.
Now, as the third Test looms, England’s hopes again rest on their talisman – Smith must deliver again. His plan is to rescue England from their state of trouble. Though it hasn’t produced instant success, with the right mindset and just a bit of luck he’ll have his opportunity to get on track, especially with help from the guys around him.
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