Despite suffering a blow to his finger during a net session, Smith remains enthusiastic and ready to face whatever “funky” strategies the English bowlers may employ. With his exceptional track record against England, Smith remains a key wicket for the home team in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston.
Smith’s Ashes Dominance in 2019
In the 2019 Ashes series, Smith showcased his unparalleled batting prowess, tormenting the English bowlers with centuries in both innings of the first Test at Birmingham. He was at his absolute best at the time.
Coming off a one-year ball-tampering ban, Smith accumulated a staggering 774 runs at an average of 110.57 throughout the series. His performances were instrumental in Australia’s success, making him a formidable opponent for England once again.
Read More: Steve Smith’s Assured Century Puts England on Notice
The Tactics Against Smith
England’s veteran fast bowler, James Anderson, emphasized that they wouldn’t overly strategize for Smith this time around. Smith hasn’t veen troubled much by English pace attack.
However, captain Ben Stokes hinted at employing a full range of tricks against the Australian maestro. Aware of the challenges that lie ahead, Smith expressed his readiness to face anything the English bowlers throw at him.
Smith’s Adaptive Approach
Adaptability has been a hallmark of Smith’s batting style, and he is confident in his ability to decipher the opposition’s plans and find solutions on the go. While speaking to media, Smith said:
One of my big strengths is being able to adapt on the go and understand what they are trying to do and sort of solve the problem out in the middle. I’ll just focus on my game and try and counter each thing they come at me with, but we are expecting some different stuff, that’s for sure.
He acknowledges that the English team has shown a propensity for unconventional tactics in recent months, and he expects them to continue experimenting in their approach. Smith remains focused on his own game while being prepared to counter any unique strategies that come his way.
Read More: Virat Kohli Hails Steve Smith as the Best Test Player of His Generation
Maintaining a Winning Formula:
With over a decade of experience under his belt, Smith has honed his approach to batting, allowing him to thrive in various situations. “I won’t really change too much, it’s about understanding situations, knowing when I can press a bit more and put a bit more pressure on,” Smith said.
He understands when to assert himself and increase the pressure on the opposition, as well as when to absorb pressure and exercise restraint. This adaptability and astute game reading have been central to his success throughout his career, and Smith sees no reason to deviate from this winning formula.