Ashes 2023: England will do some funky things, says Steve Smith

Australia’s talisman Steve Smith expects England to do some funky things in the upcoming Ashes. In the last 12 months, England batters have adopted an aggressive batting approach, ‘Bazball’ and they have also reaped rewards for the same.

The likes of Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Ollie Pope, and Harry Brook have tormented the opposition bowling line-up with their aggressive batting. Smith expects England to follow the same methods in the upcoming Ashes.

“I think we’ve seen over the last 12 months they will do some funky things. They are going to have to try different things at certain times,” Smith was quoted as saying to the reporters.

Meanwhile, Smith is going to hold the key for Australia as he has a fantastic record while playing in English conditions. Smith added his strength is to adapt to the conditions and play accordingly.

“For me, one of my big strengths has been adapting on the go, understanding what they are trying to do, and solving the problem out there in the middle. I will just focus on my game and try to counter each thing they come at me with. We are expecting some different stuff, that’s for sure,” he stated.

On the other hand, Smith was dismissed after scoring 34 in the second innings of WTC final when he tried to play a big shot. Smith admitted it wasn’t a good shot but they were in a demominating position.

“It’s a fair call, that’s not my best shot and I thought I’d cashed in a few tickets in the first innings as well. The game was getting to a point where I was trying to take it on a bit more and get that lead up and it didn’t work out for me, but that happens in the game,” Smith added.

Smith scored a fine knock of 121 runs against India in the WTC final in the first innings and he will look to carry the good form. The first Ashes Test will be played at Edgbaston, Birmingham from June 16 onwards.