During the World Test Championship final against India, Australian batsman Steve Smith played an important role in the team’s stunning victory. Smith scored 121 runs in the first innings, which helped Australia put up a massive total of 469 runs, giving India an enormous target of 444 runs in the second innings. Eventually, Australia won the WTC final by 209 runs. Today the first Ashes test has started in Edgbaston, but Smith made an interesting comment before this, and despite winning the WTC, he believes that Ashes is still the pinnacle of the game.
Ashes is pinnacle of the game- Smith
During an interview with a news channel, Smith said, “Our last week was great as we won the World Test Championship. It took us two years of hard work to reach there, and it was really a proud moment for all the boys, but the Ashes is still the pinnacle for cricketers in Australia and England. We work for this throughout the year, and it is going to be exciting. When he was asked what makes the Ashes so special, the Australian batter said, “Both teams have a long history of clashing against each other, but their current form is also the key to this big tournament.
For both teams it is the biggest series
He further said that “just as in its history, for Australia and England, it is the biggest series, and it’s about wanting to do really well and hoping for success for your team. With the way England has been playing and the way we are playing, it is going to be a thrilling contest. With the WTC victory last week, Australia has momentum on their side, but on the other hand, England, led by Ben Stokes, have been creating a fiery brand commonly referred to as the “bazball” , This Ashes is the first series for Stokes as England’s captain.
England in good form
The first match of the five-test Ashes series is being played in England’s Edgbaston stadium. The host team, England, won the toss and decided to bat first. They have lost one wicket in the form of Ben Duckett, who was dismissed by Josh Hazlewood. Despite losing an early first wicket, England seems to be in great form as they are scoring runs at a great pace. The Ashes 2022 were won by Australia as they completely whitewashed England by 4-0, so this time the host team will be seeking revenge from the Aussies.
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