As the World Test Championship (WTC) final reaches its climax, discussions surrounding the highly anticipated Ashes series are already gaining momentum. The five-match Test series between England and Australia is set to commence on June 16 in Birmingham, capturing the attention of cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
Steven Smith, the prolific Australian batsman, poses the biggest challenge for England in the upcoming Ashes series. With his exceptional skills and formidable track record, the 34-year-old has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in international cricket.
Smith’s recent outstanding century against India in the first innings of the WTC final highlights his brilliant form, which England will need to address in their preparations for the Ashes. Naseer Hussain, former England captain, has cautioned his national team about the daunting task of containing Smith’s remarkable batting prowess.
Naseer Hussain acknowledges that Steve Smith possesses a game without any glaring weaknesses, which has been instrumental in his exceptional batting average of 60 in Test matches. Unlike some of his Australian counterparts in recent years, Smith has enjoyed remarkable success in England, adding to his reputation as a top-class batsman.
Hussain emphasizes the significance of Smith’s recent century against India in the WTC final as a testament to his exceptional ability. The Australian star’s consistent performance and unwavering form make him a significant threat for England in the Ashes series. England’s coaching staff and players will be well aware of the challenge posed by Steve Smith and will be devising strategies to counter his impact during the Ashes. Finding a way to dismiss Smith early will be a key objective for the English bowlers, considering his ability to build mammoth innings and dominate opposition attacks.
The English team will likely focus on studying Smith’s batting techniques and identifying any potential weaknesses, however subtle they may be. The importance of disciplined bowling, accuracy, and exploiting any potential vulnerabilities will be crucial in containing Smith’s influence on the series.
