Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to face high-flying Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Wednesday as the action continues in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>. Both the teams are heading into the match on the back of thumping wins in their previous matches and would be looking to continue their winning run in Dubai.&nbsp;

While KKR defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad in their previous encounter in IPL 2020, RR chased a record 224 against Kings XI Punjab to script history. Both the teams have hit the right chords in IPL 2020 and it would be interesting to see their approach when they meet each other on Wednesday.&nbsp;

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<h2>RR vs KKR - Head-to-head stats:</h2>

Talking about head-to-head stats, both RR and KKR have won 10 matches each in their previous face-offs and the tie is firmly locked. However, in the UAE, RR have a 1-0 advantage over the Kolkata outfit and would look to continue the momentum in Dubai. Both RR and KKR have played two Super Overs as well.

In previous five matches, KKR have outplayed RR four times whereas the latter have won just 1 encounter. The team who have chased in the matches between RR and KKR hold an advantage when it comes to statistics with team batting second winning four of the five matches in the previous clashes.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-kkrs-karthik-picks-3-players-he-will-swap-for-rabada-iyer-and-ashwin-from-dc-330705" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Karthik picks 3 KKR players he will swap for Rabada, Iyer and Ashwin</a>

Shubman Gill shone in KKR’s win over SRH and fans will have plenty of expectations from the young batsman to take the duty forward. Whereas a lot of eyes will be on the power-hitting duo of Eoin Morgan and Andre Russel along with costliest overseas players in IPL history, Pat Cummins.&nbsp;

For RR, Sanju Samson has been the star so far with Steve Smith providing crucial starts while opening the innings. RR fans would hope Jos Buttler fires all cylinders after a disappointing outing against KXIP.&nbsp;

<h2>RR vs KKR - Squads:</h2>

Kolkata Knight Riders Squad: Shubman Gill, Sunil Narine, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Eoin Morgan, Andre Russell, Pat Cummins, Shivam Mavi, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Sandeep Warrier, Rahul Tripathi, Siddhesh Lad, Nikhil Naik, Chris Green, Prasidh Krishna, Lockie Ferguson, Rinku Singh, Ali Khan, Tom Banton, Manimaran Siddharth

Rajasthan Royals Squad: Jos Buttler(w), Steven Smith(c), Sanju Samson, Rahul Tewatia, Robin Uthappa, Jofra Archer, Riyan Parag, Tom Curran, Shreyas Gopal, Ankit Rajpoot, Jaydev Unadkat, Varun Aaron, David Miller, Aniruddha Joshi, Manan Vohra, Andrew Tye, Shashank Singh, Mahipal Lomror, Oshane Thomas, Mayank Markande, Anuj Rawat, Kartik Tyagi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Akash Singh 
&nbsp;

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to face high-flying Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Wednesday as the action continues in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to face high-flying Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Wednesday as the action continues in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. Both the teams are heading into the match on the back of thumping wins in their previous matches and would be looking to continue their winning run in Dubai. While KKR defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad in their previous encounter in IPL 2020, RR chased a record 224 against Kings XI Punjab to script history. Both the teams have hit the right chords in IPL 2020 and it would be interesting to see their approach when they meet each other on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Spin hero Rashid Khan pays tribute to late mother, his 'biggest fan' RR vs KKR - Head-to-head stats: Talking about head-to-head stats, both RR and KKR have won 10 matches each in their previous face-offs and the tie is firmly locked. However, in the UAE, RR have a 1-0 advantage over the Kolkata outfit and would look to continue the momentum in Dubai. Both RR and KKR have played two Super Overs as well. In previous five matches, KKR have outplayed RR four times whereas the latter have won just 1 encounter. The team who have chased in the matches between RR and KKR hold an advantage when it comes to statistics with team batting second winning four of the five matches in the previous clashes. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Karthik picks 3 KKR players he will swap for Rabada, Iyer and Ashwin Shubman Gill shone in KKR’s win over SRH and fans will have plenty of expectations from the young batsman to take the duty forward. Whereas a lot of eyes will be on the power-hitting duo of Eoin Morgan and Andre Russel along with costliest overseas players in IPL history, Pat Cummins. For RR, Sanju Samson has been the star so far with Steve Smith providing crucial starts while opening the innings. RR fans would hope Jos Buttler fires all cylinders after a disappointing outing against KXIP. RR vs KKR - Squads: Kolkata Knight Riders Squad: Shubman Gill, Sunil Narine, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Eoin Morgan, Andre Russell, Pat Cummins, Shivam Mavi, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Sandeep Warrier, Rahul Tripathi, Siddhesh Lad, Nikhil Naik, Chris Green, Prasidh Krishna, Lockie Ferguson, Rinku Singh, Ali Khan, Tom Banton, Manimaran Siddharth Rajasthan Royals Squad: Jos Buttler(w), Steven Smith(c), Sanju Samson, Rahul Tewatia, Robin Uthappa, Jofra Archer, Riyan Parag, Tom Curran, Shreyas Gopal, Ankit Rajpoot, Jaydev Unadkat, Varun Aaron, David Miller, Aniruddha Joshi, Manan Vohra, Andrew Tye, Shashank Singh, Mahipal Lomror, Oshane Thomas, Mayank Markande, Anuj Rawat, Kartik Tyagi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Akash Singh

IPL 2020, RR vs KKR Preview: Can DK and Co. stop high-flying Rajasthan Royals?

Rajasthan Royals beat Kings XI Punjab in a high scoring thriller at Sharjah on Sunday. The Royals have broken their previous record of the highest successful run chase after clinching this match in the final overs.&nbsp;

Rajasthan won the toss and chose to field first. But the decision did not go as planned in the beginning after KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal put up 183 runs of opening partnership for KXIP. Agarwal scored a century. Pooran's final over hitting helped KXIP pose a mammoth total of 223.&nbsp;

Rajasthan was off to a shaky start as they lost Buttler on single digit. However, a quick partnership between skipper Smith and Samson helped Rajasthan stay in the game. But Kings XI were relieved after Smith's dismissal. Tewatia came into the strike and was struggling to score runs. Samson's wicket out on some extra pressure on RR. But Tewatia smashed five sixes of Cottrell's over to close into a massive victory. He went on to smash two more sixes in Shami's over. Tewatia was 8 off 19 balls at one stage but he went on to score 50 in just 30 balls.&nbsp;

Samson was adjudged the man of the match for his innings.&nbsp;

Rajasthan are second on the table after the win, whereas, KXIP have slipped to third.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Royals beat Kings XI Punjab in a high scoring thriller at Sharjah on Sunday. The Royals have broken their previous record of the highest successful run chase after clinching this match in the final overs.

Rajasthan Royals beat Kings XI Punjab in a high scoring thriller at Sharjah on Sunday. The Royals have broken their previous record of the highest successful run chase after clinching this match in the final overs. Rajasthan won the toss and chose to field first. But the decision did not go as planned in the beginning after KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal put up 183 runs of opening partnership for KXIP. Agarwal scored a century. Pooran's final over hitting helped KXIP pose a mammoth total of 223. Rajasthan was off to a shaky start as they lost Buttler on single digit. However, a quick partnership between skipper Smith and Samson helped Rajasthan stay in the game. But Kings XI were relieved after Smith's dismissal. Tewatia came into the strike and was struggling to score runs. Samson's wicket out on some extra pressure on RR. But Tewatia smashed five sixes of Cottrell's over to close into a massive victory. He went on to smash two more sixes in Shami's over. Tewatia was 8 off 19 balls at one stage but he went on to score 50 in just 30 balls. Samson was adjudged the man of the match for his innings. Rajasthan are second on the table after the win, whereas, KXIP have slipped to third.

IPL 2020: RR beat KXIP to highest successful run chase in IPL history

Rajasthan Royals are set to play Kings XI Punjab at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Sunday as the high-octane action continues in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>. Both RR and KXIP have the winning momentum and would be looking to continue the run on Sunday.

Sanju Samson and KL Rahul were the stars for RR and KXIP respectively in their previous wins in IPL 2020 as both played some fabulous cricketing strokes. While Samson smashed 74 off 32 laced by nine sixes and boundary against CSK, Rahul hammered an unbeaten 132 off 69 balls powered 14 boundaries and seven sixes.&nbsp;

Interestingly, Sharjah recorded 33 sixes in the last match between KXIP and CSK and another high-scoring encounter is expected when RR and KXIP take the field on Sunday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-shubman-gill-breaks-twin-records-after-match-winning-knock-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-330629" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Shubman Gill breaks twin records after match-winning knock vs Sunrisers Hyderabad</a>

RR would be a bit wary about their bowling line-up that leaked 200 runs against CSK and a change or two could be made given that ace England batsman Jos Buttler is also available for selection. Either of David Miller or Tom Curran could make way for Butter as RR look to bolster their playing XI.

For KXIP, the bowling department has excelled with Mohammad Shami and Sheldon Cottrell making a lethal new-ball pair. Young spinner Ravi Bishnoi continues to impress and learn under Anil Kumble.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-expecting-tough-match-against-kings-xi-punjab-says-jos-buttler-330463" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Expecting tough match against Kings XI Punjab, says Jos Buttler</a>

Given that the Sharjah Cricket Stadium has the shortest boundary and a score of around 200-210 is expected again.&nbsp;

<h2 class="MsoNormal">KXIP vs RR Squads:</h2>

Kings XI Punjab Squad: Mayank Agarwal, Lokesh Rahul(w/c), Nicholas Pooran, Glenn Maxwell, Karun Nair, Sarfaraz Khan, James Neesham, Murugan Ashwin, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohammed Shami, Sheldon Cottrell, Chris Gayle, Mandeep Singh, Chris Jordan, Krishnappa Gowtham, Deepak Hooda, Hardus Viljoen, Jagadeesha Suchith, Ishan Porel, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Tajinder Singh, Darshan Nalkande, Arshdeep Singh, Simran Singh, Harpreet Brar

Rajasthan Royals Squad: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Jos Buttler, Steven Smith(c), Sanju Samson(w), Robin Uthappa, Rahul Tewatia, Riyan Parag, Tom Curran, Jofra Archer, Shreyas Gopal, Jaydev Unadkat, David Miller, Varun Aaron, Aniruddha Joshi, Manan Vohra, Ankit Rajpoot, Andrew Tye, Shashank Singh, Mahipal Lomror, Oshane Thomas, Mayank Markande, Anuj Rawat, Kartik Tyagi, Akash Singh&nbsp; 
<o:p></o:p>

Rajasthan Royals are set to play Kings XI Punjab at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Sunday as the high-octane action continues in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.

Rajasthan Royals are set to play Kings XI Punjab at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Sunday as the high-octane action continues in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. Both RR and KXIP have the winning momentum and would be looking to continue the run on Sunday. Sanju Samson and KL Rahul were the stars for RR and KXIP respectively in their previous wins in IPL 2020 as both played some fabulous cricketing strokes. While Samson smashed 74 off 32 laced by nine sixes and boundary against CSK, Rahul hammered an unbeaten 132 off 69 balls powered 14 boundaries and seven sixes. Interestingly, Sharjah recorded 33 sixes in the last match between KXIP and CSK and another high-scoring encounter is expected when RR and KXIP take the field on Sunday. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Shubman Gill breaks twin records after match-winning knock vs Sunrisers Hyderabad RR would be a bit wary about their bowling line-up that leaked 200 runs against CSK and a change or two could be made given that ace England batsman Jos Buttler is also available for selection. Either of David Miller or Tom Curran could make way for Butter as RR look to bolster their playing XI. For KXIP, the bowling department has excelled with Mohammad Shami and Sheldon Cottrell making a lethal new-ball pair. Young spinner Ravi Bishnoi continues to impress and learn under Anil Kumble. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Expecting tough match against Kings XI Punjab, says Jos Buttler Given that the Sharjah Cricket Stadium has the shortest boundary and a score of around 200-210 is expected again. KXIP vs RR Squads: Kings XI Punjab Squad: Mayank Agarwal, Lokesh Rahul(w/c), Nicholas Pooran, Glenn Maxwell, Karun Nair, Sarfaraz Khan, James Neesham, Murugan Ashwin, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohammed Shami, Sheldon Cottrell, Chris Gayle, Mandeep Singh, Chris Jordan, Krishnappa Gowtham, Deepak Hooda, Hardus Viljoen, Jagadeesha Suchith, Ishan Porel, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Tajinder Singh, Darshan Nalkande, Arshdeep Singh, Simran Singh, Harpreet Brar Rajasthan Royals Squad: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Jos Buttler, Steven Smith(c), Sanju Samson(w), Robin Uthappa, Rahul Tewatia, Riyan Parag, Tom Curran, Jofra Archer, Shreyas Gopal, Jaydev Unadkat, David Miller, Varun Aaron, Aniruddha Joshi, Manan Vohra, Ankit Rajpoot, Andrew Tye, Shashank Singh, Mahipal Lomror, Oshane Thomas, Mayank Markande, Anuj Rawat, Kartik Tyagi, Akash Singh

IPL 2020, RR vs KXIP Preview: Can Smith & Co. continue their winning run?

Rajasthan Royals will hope to begin their IPL 2020 campaign with a win as they take on Chennai Super Kings at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-rajasthan-royals-vs-chennai-super-kings-preview-stats-players-to-watchout-for-329380" hreflang="en">IPL 2020- RR vs CSK: Preview, stats, players to watchout for</a>

However, 'Sir Jadeja' might pose a major thorn for Steve Smith and Co. and might hamper their dreams to begin their IPL 2020 campaign with a win. In the head-to-head stats between the two teams, Chennai has won 14 times, whereas, Rajasthan has won 7 times and Jadeja has been vital for Chennai Super Kings during these games.&nbsp;

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A former Rajasthan Royals player has played well against his old side. Jadeja scalped 16 wickets in 14 matches against Rajasthan Royals. He has an average of 19 and a strike rate of 15.8 against RR, which is better than any other active team.&nbsp;

Jadeja has been a nightmare for RR skipper Steve Smith as the left-arm spinner dismissed the Aussie five times. Ravindra Jadeja has picked up two 4-fors against RR.&nbsp;

Looking at the conditions in the UAE, Jadeja might just be Dhoni's trump card tonight.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Royals will hope to begin their IPL 2020 campaign with a win as they take on Chennai Super Kings at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. Also read: IPL 2020- RR vs CSK: Preview, stats, players to watchout for However, 'Sir Jadeja' might pose a major thorn for Steve Smith and Co.

Rajasthan Royals will hope to begin their IPL 2020 campaign with a win as they take on Chennai Super Kings at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. Also read: IPL 2020- RR vs CSK: Preview, stats, players to watchout for However, 'Sir Jadeja' might pose a major thorn for Steve Smith and Co. and might hamper their dreams to begin their IPL 2020 campaign with a win. In the head-to-head stats between the two teams, Chennai has won 14 times, whereas, Rajasthan has won 7 times and Jadeja has been vital for Chennai Super Kings during these games. IN PICS: In pics- IPL trivia: Top 5 batsmen with highest individual scores! A former Rajasthan Royals player has played well against his old side. Jadeja scalped 16 wickets in 14 matches against Rajasthan Royals. He has an average of 19 and a strike rate of 15.8 against RR, which is better than any other active team. Jadeja has been a nightmare for RR skipper Steve Smith as the left-arm spinner dismissed the Aussie five times. Ravindra Jadeja has picked up two 4-fors against RR. Looking at the conditions in the UAE, Jadeja might just be Dhoni's trump card tonight.

IPL 2020: Ravindra Jadeja, a biggest thorn for Rajasthan Royals and Steve Smith

Rajasthan Royals, led by Steve Smiths, will hope to begin their IPL 2020 campaign with a win as they take on Chennai Super Kings at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.

Rajasthan Royals, led by Steve Smiths, will hope to begin their IPL 2020 campaign with a win as they take on Chennai Super Kings at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. IN PICS| IPL 2020: Action in pictures as 'grand festival' of cricket starts in UAE Chennai Super Kings began their IPL campaign with a five-wicket win against defending champions Mumbai Indians on Saturday. Also read: IPL 2020: After Preity, Ness Wadia reacts to 'short run' controversy during KXIP vs DC Royals will pose a tough challenge to Dhoni and Co. this year, despite having a poor run last season. Cricketing stalwarts like Steve Smith, Jofra Archer and Jos Buttler have been in the top form currently and will be an asset to the Royals tonight. However, Buttler will be missing out the opening match. The squad of Rajasthan Royals include Robin Uthappa, who could replace Buttler and is one fifty shy from getting 25 half-centuries in the Indian Premier League. Yashasvi Jaiswal will be the young gun to watch out for. Jaiswal was the leading run-getter during India’s run to the final of the Under 19 World Cup earlier in the year. He also remains the youngest Indian to score a double ton in List A cricket. He might even open the innings for Royals. Sanju Samson has been in top form for Royals in yesteryears, he will be expected to perform well this year too. In terms of hard-hitters, David Miller and all-rounder Tom Curran could be a part of the playing XI tonight. Chennai Super Kings players are confident after their latest win over Mumbai Indians. Ambati Rayudu and Faf du Plessis have been in top form and scored half-centuries in the previous match. Dhoni's form with the bat is still not known as he did not play many balls last match. Jadeja, Ngidi and Chahar are expected to lead CSK's bowling department. According to coach Stephen Fleming, Bravo will be missing this match too. STATS In the last five matches between the two sides, CSK have beaten RR 4-1. MILESTONE ALERT CSK skipper MS Dhoni needs 68 more runs to complete 4500 IPL runs. RR player David Miller needs one catch to complete 50 IPL catches. CSK duo Shane Watson and Ambati Rayudu need 43 and 45 runs respectively to complete 1000 IPL runs for Chennai Super Kings. Expected Playing XI Chennai Super Kings: Murali Vijay, Shane Watson, Faf du Plessis, Ambati Rayudu, Kedar Jadhav, MS Dhoni (c & wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, Deepak Chahar, Piyush Chawla, Lungi Ngidi Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Robin Uthappa, Steve Smith (c), David Miller, Sanju Samson (wk), Tom Curran, Riyan Parag, Shreyas Gopal, Jofra Archer, Jaydev Unadkat, Ankit Rajpoot

IPL 2020- Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings: Preview, stats, players to watchout for

Chennai Super Kings bowling consultant Eric Simons has said that Aussie cricketers like Steve Smith and David Warner will remain in for isolation for six days post-arrival in the UAE for the Indian Premier League. These players will have to remain in isolation despite having spent time at the bio-secure bubble in the UK.&nbsp;

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After the third and final ODI against England, Steve Smith, David Warner and Josh Hazlewood will join their respective IPL teams in the UAE.&nbsp;

“We are hearing - although it’s not confirmed yet - that they will also have to self-isolate in their rooms for six days and produce negative tests on the first, third and sixth days before they can join us,” Simons wrote in his column for ‘Manners on Cricket’ website.

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“We had hoped that they could all move from their current bio-secure bubbles into ours but it seems likely that there will be no ‘leniency’, which is understandable. Apart from our brilliant Indian players, led by the ageless MS Dhoni, we do have Shane Watson, Faf du Plessis and Lungi Ngidi in full training so there’s no shortage of talent.”

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The Australians will arrive in the UAE on September 17. According to Simons, the players in CSK will have to wear a smart health tracking device whenever they step out of hotel rooms.

“We were issued with tracking devices to be worn around our necks whenever we left our hotel rooms but our physiotherapist has been very creative in turning them into ‘watches’ so at least that doesn’t feel restrictive,” said the former South African coach.

CSK has reported 13 cases of coronavirus since they arrived in the UAE. These cases include two players.&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings bowling consultant Eric Simons has said that Aussie cricketers like Steve Smith and David Warner will remain in for isolation for six days post-arrival in the UAE for the Indian Premier League.

Chennai Super Kings bowling consultant Eric Simons has said that Aussie cricketers like Steve Smith and David Warner will remain in for isolation for six days post-arrival in the UAE for the Indian Premier League. These players will have to remain in isolation despite having spent time at the bio-secure bubble in the UK. Also read: IPL can help Australian and Indian players with 'challenging' practice before December series: Chappel After the third and final ODI against England, Steve Smith, David Warner and Josh Hazlewood will join their respective IPL teams in the UAE. “We are hearing - although it’s not confirmed yet - that they will also have to self-isolate in their rooms for six days and produce negative tests on the first, third and sixth days before they can join us,” Simons wrote in his column for ‘Manners on Cricket’ website. In pics: IPL 2020: Predicting MVPs from each franchise “We had hoped that they could all move from their current bio-secure bubbles into ours but it seems likely that there will be no ‘leniency’, which is understandable. Apart from our brilliant Indian players, led by the ageless MS Dhoni, we do have Shane Watson, Faf du Plessis and Lungi Ngidi in full training so there’s no shortage of talent.” In pics: IPL 2020: Updated squad list of all the franchises; retained and bought players The Australians will arrive in the UAE on September 17. According to Simons, the players in CSK will have to wear a smart health tracking device whenever they step out of hotel rooms. “We were issued with tracking devices to be worn around our necks whenever we left our hotel rooms but our physiotherapist has been very creative in turning them into ‘watches’ so at least that doesn’t feel restrictive,” said the former South African coach. CSK has reported 13 cases of coronavirus since they arrived in the UAE. These cases include two players.

IPL 2020: Australian players to remain in isolation for six days, says CSK bowling consultant Simons

Australia star batsman Steve Smith is set to undergo a fresh concussion test before the second one-day international against England after being ruled out of Friday's opener at Old Trafford in bizarre fashion.

Smith was sidelined from the first of a three-match series after being hit on the head batting in the nets, from a delivery by one of Australia's fast bowlers, but rather a throw-down from a member of the coaching staff.

An Australia team spokesman said Smith was being rested as a precaution despite passing a concussion assessment and would have another such test on Saturday ahead of Sunday's second ODI.

"Steve Smith got a knock on the head yesterday (Thursday) in practice so it's a precautionary measure to leave him out," Australia captain Aaron Finch told Sky Sports at the toss. "(Marcus) Stoinis will bat at three."

Smith was dramatically felled by a 92 mph bouncer from England fast bowler Jofra Archer during last year's drawn second Test at Lord's, paving the way for Marnus Labuschagne to become international cricket's first concussion substitute.

Despite missing the third Test at Headingley, Smith still scored 774 runs, including three hundreds, at an average of over 110 during a five-match series that ended all square at 2-2.

In the 31-year-old former captain Smith's absence, Australia slumped to 123-5 inside 24 overs on Friday after losing the toss.

Stoinis was well caught by diving wicketkeeper Jos Buttler off fast bowler Mark Wood for 43, featuring six fours. Then both Labuschagne (21) and Alex Carey (10) fell to leg-spinner Adil Rashid in what was Australia's first one-day international against England since an eight-wicket defeat by the eventual champions in last year's World Cup semi-final at Edgbaston.

Australia star batsman Steve Smith is set to undergo a fresh concussion test before the second one-day international against England after being ruled out of Friday's opener at Old Trafford in bizarre fashion.

Australia star batsman Steve Smith is set to undergo a fresh concussion test before the second one-day international against England after being ruled out of Friday's opener at Old Trafford in bizarre fashion. Smith was sidelined from the first of a three-match series after being hit on the head batting in the nets, from a delivery by one of Australia's fast bowlers, but rather a throw-down from a member of the coaching staff. An Australia team spokesman said Smith was being rested as a precaution despite passing a concussion assessment and would have another such test on Saturday ahead of Sunday's second ODI. "Steve Smith got a knock on the head yesterday (Thursday) in practice so it's a precautionary measure to leave him out," Australia captain Aaron Finch told Sky Sports at the toss. "(Marcus) Stoinis will bat at three." Smith was dramatically felled by a 92 mph bouncer from England fast bowler Jofra Archer during last year's drawn second Test at Lord's, paving the way for Marnus Labuschagne to become international cricket's first concussion substitute. Despite missing the third Test at Headingley, Smith still scored 774 runs, including three hundreds, at an average of over 110 during a five-match series that ended all square at 2-2. In the 31-year-old former captain Smith's absence, Australia slumped to 123-5 inside 24 overs on Friday after losing the toss. Stoinis was well caught by diving wicketkeeper Jos Buttler off fast bowler Mark Wood for 43, featuring six fours. Then both Labuschagne (21) and Alex Carey (10) fell to leg-spinner Adil Rashid in what was Australia's first one-day international against England since an eight-wicket defeat by the eventual champions in last year's World Cup semi-final at Edgbaston.

Australia's Smith to have new concussion test ahead of 2nd England ODI

Master batsman Steve Smith says Australia have “unfinished business” in England, with the achievement of retaining the Ashes last year tempered by defeat in the final test that levelled the series 2-2.

Tim Paine’s Australia retained the urn in England for the first time since 2001, earning a hero’s reception back home, but the loss at The Oval left a sour taste for Smith.

“To know that we’d got the Ashes back was pretty special,” he said in comments published on Cricket Australia’s website.

“Unfortunately, we couldn’t win them which is something I’d still like to do.

“From my personal perspective, I think it’s unfinished business.

“It’s great to retain the Ashes but it just doesn’t sit right with me when you don’t win it.

“So I probably left at the end of the fifth test (feeling) more disappointed than a sense of achievement.”

Smith was awarded the Compton-Miller Medal as player of the series after scoring 774 runs at an average of 110.57 from four tests.

He was forced to miss the third test with concussion after being struck by a Jofra Archer bouncer at Lord’s which sent a shudder through the Australian camp.

Smith, who scored 211 in the fourth test at Old Trafford to ensure Australia retained the urn, said he had no problem watching the replay of the Archer delivery that felled him.

“I’ve seen it a few times. It’s not hard to watch,” he said.

Australia will look to retain the Ashes at home in 2021/22 and the 31-year-old Smith must wait until 2023 for another chance to beat England away.

“Hopefully I get another crack at it, we’ll see how we go,” he said. “I’m getting a bit old now.

“But it’s certainly something to strive for, that’s for sure.”

Master batsman Steve Smith says Australia have “unfinished business” in England, with the achievement of retaining the Ashes last year tempered by defeat in the final test that levelled the series 2-2.

Master batsman Steve Smith says Australia have “unfinished business” in England, with the achievement of retaining the Ashes last year tempered by defeat in the final test that levelled the series 2-2. Tim Paine’s Australia retained the urn in England for the first time since 2001, earning a hero’s reception back home, but the loss at The Oval left a sour taste for Smith. “To know that we’d got the Ashes back was pretty special,” he said in comments published on Cricket Australia’s website. “Unfortunately, we couldn’t win them which is something I’d still like to do. “From my personal perspective, I think it’s unfinished business. “It’s great to retain the Ashes but it just doesn’t sit right with me when you don’t win it. “So I probably left at the end of the fifth test (feeling) more disappointed than a sense of achievement.” Smith was awarded the Compton-Miller Medal as player of the series after scoring 774 runs at an average of 110.57 from four tests. He was forced to miss the third test with concussion after being struck by a Jofra Archer bouncer at Lord’s which sent a shudder through the Australian camp. Smith, who scored 211 in the fourth test at Old Trafford to ensure Australia retained the urn, said he had no problem watching the replay of the Archer delivery that felled him. “I’ve seen it a few times. It’s not hard to watch,” he said. Australia will look to retain the Ashes at home in 2021/22 and the 31-year-old Smith must wait until 2023 for another chance to beat England away. “Hopefully I get another crack at it, we’ll see how we go,” he said. “I’m getting a bit old now. “But it’s certainly something to strive for, that’s for sure.”

Drawing Ashes in England was 'disappointing' - Smith

Australia star Steve Smith admitted Monday he has barely picked up a bat since cricket shut down, but said he was in his best physical shape in years.

The 30-year-old, the world's number one Test batsman, has been out of action since March, when Australia's one-day series against New Zealand was abandoned due to the coronavirus pandemic.

He returned to training with his New South Wales teammates Monday as they await the green light for competitive cricket to start again, targeting a home one-day series against Zimbabwe in August.

"I feel like I've had a pre-season the last couple of months. Got myself into probably the best shape I've been in years. Lots of running, lots of gym stuff," Smith said.

"It's been a couple of months of good hard work and now back with the boys, which is great."

But with no net practice, he has barely picked up his bat.

"I haven't touched a bat, really. A couple of little drills at home but that's about it," said Smith, who has plundered more than 7,000 Test runs.&nbsp;

"I've just tried to switch off from it a bit, which I don't do very often. I was just focusing on getting myself fit and strong and refreshing mentally.

"It's been a bit different but I'm sure in the long run it will probably be a good thing to freshen up after what was a pretty long year-and-a-half since the World Cup and Ashes and summer here.

"I'm refreshed and ready to go," he added.

If the virus had not struck, Smith would have been in the plane to Bangladesh this month for a two-Test series, after playing in the postponed Indian Premier League.

He was one of six Cricket Australia-contracted players in the New South Wales squad who rejoined their state teammates Monday, including David Warner, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon.

The squad has been divided into four groups who alternate morning and afternoon indoor gym and skills sessions as part of COVID-19 return-to-training protocols.

Australia star Steve Smith admitted Monday he has barely picked up a bat since cricket shut down, but said he was in his best physical shape in years. The 30-year-old, the world's number one Test batsman, has been out of action since March, when Australia's one-day series against New Zealand was abandoned due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Australia star Steve Smith admitted Monday he has barely picked up a bat since cricket shut down, but said he was in his best physical shape in years. The 30-year-old, the world's number one Test batsman, has been out of action since March, when Australia's one-day series against New Zealand was abandoned due to the coronavirus pandemic. He returned to training with his New South Wales teammates Monday as they await the green light for competitive cricket to start again, targeting a home one-day series against Zimbabwe in August. "I feel like I've had a pre-season the last couple of months. Got myself into probably the best shape I've been in years. Lots of running, lots of gym stuff," Smith said. "It's been a couple of months of good hard work and now back with the boys, which is great." But with no net practice, he has barely picked up his bat. "I haven't touched a bat, really. A couple of little drills at home but that's about it," said Smith, who has plundered more than 7,000 Test runs. "I've just tried to switch off from it a bit, which I don't do very often. I was just focusing on getting myself fit and strong and refreshing mentally. "It's been a bit different but I'm sure in the long run it will probably be a good thing to freshen up after what was a pretty long year-and-a-half since the World Cup and Ashes and summer here. "I'm refreshed and ready to go," he added. If the virus had not struck, Smith would have been in the plane to Bangladesh this month for a two-Test series, after playing in the postponed Indian Premier League. He was one of six Cricket Australia-contracted players in the New South Wales squad who rejoined their state teammates Monday, including David Warner, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon. The squad has been divided into four groups who alternate morning and afternoon indoor gym and skills sessions as part of COVID-19 return-to-training protocols.

Smith 'in best shape' despite not picking up bat in months

There has been a lot of debates surrounding who is a better batsman between Virat Kohli and Steve Smith. While many former cricketers and experts have hailed Kohli as a better player across formats, others have chosen Smith as the close winner in the race. Now, former South African skipper AB de Villiers has given his take on the rivalry between Kohli and Smith as he compared the duo with tennis legends Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal respectively.&nbsp;

While de Villiers didn’t clearly pick his favourite, Mr. 360 did state that Kohli is a more natural striker of the ball.&nbsp;

In an Instagram chat with former Zimbabwe seamer Pommie Mbangwa, de Villiers spoke about the two batsmen.

“It’s a difficult one, but Virat is definitely the more natural ball-striker, there’s no doubt about that,” de Villiers said during his interaction.

“In tennis terms, I’d say he’s more like a (Roger) Federer whereas Smith is like a (Rafael) Nadal. Smith is mentally very strong and figures out a way of scoring runs - he doesn’t look natural, but he ends up writing records and doing amazing things at the crease. “I think mentally; Smith is one of the best I have ever seen. Virat has also scored runs all over the world and won games under pressure,” de Villiers, himself a modern-day great, said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-staring-at-loss-of-half-a-billion-dollars-if-ipl-2020-is-cancelled-298168" hreflang="en">BCCI staring at loss of half a billion dollars if IPL 2020 is cancelled</a>

However, de Villiers was pushed to backfoot when a fan asked him to choose his favourite between Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar. The swashbuckling batsman picked Tendulkar in a jiffy as he said for both him and Kohli, Tendulkar is like a role model and the Master Blaster had set standards for other batsmen to follow. However, de Villiers stated Kohli is the best ever when it comes to chasing a total.

"Sachin for both (him and Kohli) of us is like a role model. The way he stood out back in the day in his era and the things he achieved and with the grace he did all of that, it's a great example for everyone. I think Virat will also say that he's (Tendulkar) the main guy, he's the dude. He set the standards for guys like us to follow. Personally for me, especially in a chase, I'd say Virat is the best I've ever seen in my life. There's no-one that beats him when it comes to... the opposition scores 330 and you've got to go chase it down," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/international-nurses-day-virat-kohli-sachin-tendulkar-pay-heartfelt-tribute-to-silent-guardians-298153" hreflang="en">International Nurses Day: Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar pay heartfelt tribute to 'silent guardians'</a>

"Sachin was amazing in all formats, all sorts of situations but Virat tops him there when it comes to chasing under pressure. For me, that's where I rate sportsman, when it comes to tennis, golf... the Tiger Woods of the world. When the heat is really on you feel like your whole body is numb, but he (Kohli) stands up and he does amazing things. That's what Virat does under pressure," de Villiers added.

There has been a lot of debates surrounding who is a better batsman between Virat Kohli and Steve Smith. While many former cricketers and experts have hailed Kohli as a better player across formats, others have chosen Smith as the close winner in the race.

There has been a lot of debates surrounding who is a better batsman between Virat Kohli and Steve Smith. While many former cricketers and experts have hailed Kohli as a better player across formats, others have chosen Smith as the close winner in the race. Now, former South African skipper AB de Villiers has given his take on the rivalry between Kohli and Smith as he compared the duo with tennis legends Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal respectively. While de Villiers didn’t clearly pick his favourite, Mr. 360 did state that Kohli is a more natural striker of the ball. In an Instagram chat with former Zimbabwe seamer Pommie Mbangwa, de Villiers spoke about the two batsmen. “It’s a difficult one, but Virat is definitely the more natural ball-striker, there’s no doubt about that,” de Villiers said during his interaction. “In tennis terms, I’d say he’s more like a (Roger) Federer whereas Smith is like a (Rafael) Nadal. Smith is mentally very strong and figures out a way of scoring runs - he doesn’t look natural, but he ends up writing records and doing amazing things at the crease. “I think mentally; Smith is one of the best I have ever seen. Virat has also scored runs all over the world and won games under pressure,” de Villiers, himself a modern-day great, said. ALSO READ: BCCI staring at loss of half a billion dollars if IPL 2020 is cancelled However, de Villiers was pushed to backfoot when a fan asked him to choose his favourite between Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar. The swashbuckling batsman picked Tendulkar in a jiffy as he said for both him and Kohli, Tendulkar is like a role model and the Master Blaster had set standards for other batsmen to follow. However, de Villiers stated Kohli is the best ever when it comes to chasing a total. "Sachin for both (him and Kohli) of us is like a role model. The way he stood out back in the day in his era and the things he achieved and with the grace he did all of that, it's a great example for everyone. I think Virat will also say that he's (Tendulkar) the main guy, he's the dude. He set the standards for guys like us to follow. Personally for me, especially in a chase, I'd say Virat is the best I've ever seen in my life. There's no-one that beats him when it comes to... the opposition scores 330 and you've got to go chase it down," he said. ALSO READ: International Nurses Day: Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar pay heartfelt tribute to 'silent guardians' "Sachin was amazing in all formats, all sorts of situations but Virat tops him there when it comes to chasing under pressure. For me, that's where I rate sportsman, when it comes to tennis, golf... the Tiger Woods of the world. When the heat is really on you feel like your whole body is numb, but he (Kohli) stands up and he does amazing things. That's what Virat does under pressure," de Villiers added.

Virat Kohli and Steve Smith are Federer-Nadal of cricket: AB de Villiers

The world’s number one Test batsman, Steve Smith has managed to outfox every world-class bowler by his unorthodox technique, which has left many bemused. The former Aussie skipper has, thus far, amassed as many as 7,227 runs in 73 Tests and 4,162 runs in ODI cricket with an uncanny technique and is hailed as one of the greatest batsmen ever to have graced the cricket field.

Smith has now revealed the reason behind his unusual stance, which sees his back-foot get planted in the line of off-stump. Speaking of his unorthodox batting stance, Smith said that his body posture depends on the bowler he is facing and how the wicket is playing on that particular day. However, it is mainly to limit the way of getting dismissed for Smith.

Talking about his open batting stance, Smith, said in a podcast hosted by Rajasthan Royals: “It depends on who’s bowling, how is the wicket playing, how I gonna score and stuff like that or how people are trying to get me out, probably that determines how open I am or otherwise how closed I am.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/covid-19-fight-gavaskar-contributes-rs-59-lakh-pujara-kashyap-join-list-of-donors-291164" hreflang="en">COVID-19 Fight: Gavaskar contributes Rs 59 lakh, Pujara, Kashyap join list of donors</a>

“But my general stance where my back foot is going to almost off stump or maybe even outside at stages, I know that anything outside my eyeline isn’t hitting the stumps,” he said while adding, “For me, you shouldn’t get out if the ball is not hitting the stumps, so that is just a trick from me when I first started doing it, just limiting the ways I get out,” he explained.

However, Smith has been trapped LBW and experts have blamed his uncanny batting stance for the reason behind the frequency of him getting out in that fashion.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-players-too-scared-to-sledge-virat-kohli-or-indian-players-due-to-ipl-deals-michael-clarke-291129" hreflang="en">Australian players too scared to sledge Virat Kohli or Indian players due to IPL deals: Michael Clarke</a>

“Sometimes, I get trapped in front but I’m okay with that at stages, knowing that if it is outside my eyeline, I don’t need to try and play the ball, I can just leave that,” he said.

Smith, who was out of cricket action for 12 months after a ban imposed by Cricket Australia for his role in the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal in 2018, was the highest run-scorer in 2019 when it comes to Test cricket. He went on to score as many as 589 runs in the Ashes 2019 at a whopping average of 147.25 laced with two hundred and a double century. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The world’s number one Test batsman, Steve Smith has managed to outfox every world-class bowler by his unorthodox technique, which has left many bemused. The former Aussie skipper has, thus far, amassed as many as 7,227 runs in 73 Tests and 4,162 runs in ODI cricket with an uncanny technique and is hailed as one of the greatest batsmen ever to have graced the cricket field.

The world’s number one Test batsman, Steve Smith has managed to outfox every world-class bowler by his unorthodox technique, which has left many bemused. The former Aussie skipper has, thus far, amassed as many as 7,227 runs in 73 Tests and 4,162 runs in ODI cricket with an uncanny technique and is hailed as one of the greatest batsmen ever to have graced the cricket field. Smith has now revealed the reason behind his unusual stance, which sees his back-foot get planted in the line of off-stump. Speaking of his unorthodox batting stance, Smith said that his body posture depends on the bowler he is facing and how the wicket is playing on that particular day. However, it is mainly to limit the way of getting dismissed for Smith. Talking about his open batting stance, Smith, said in a podcast hosted by Rajasthan Royals: “It depends on who’s bowling, how is the wicket playing, how I gonna score and stuff like that or how people are trying to get me out, probably that determines how open I am or otherwise how closed I am. ALSO READ: COVID-19 Fight: Gavaskar contributes Rs 59 lakh, Pujara, Kashyap join list of donors “But my general stance where my back foot is going to almost off stump or maybe even outside at stages, I know that anything outside my eyeline isn’t hitting the stumps,” he said while adding, “For me, you shouldn’t get out if the ball is not hitting the stumps, so that is just a trick from me when I first started doing it, just limiting the ways I get out,” he explained. However, Smith has been trapped LBW and experts have blamed his uncanny batting stance for the reason behind the frequency of him getting out in that fashion. ALSO READ: Australian players too scared to sledge Virat Kohli or Indian players due to IPL deals: Michael Clarke “Sometimes, I get trapped in front but I’m okay with that at stages, knowing that if it is outside my eyeline, I don’t need to try and play the ball, I can just leave that,” he said. Smith, who was out of cricket action for 12 months after a ban imposed by Cricket Australia for his role in the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal in 2018, was the highest run-scorer in 2019 when it comes to Test cricket. He went on to score as many as 589 runs in the Ashes 2019 at a whopping average of 147.25 laced with two hundred and a double century.

What is the reason behind Steve Smith's unorthodox batting stance? World's no. 1 Test batsman explains

Australia opener David Warner is braced for a hostile reception but hopes fans will show "respect" as he and Steve Smith return to South Africa for the first time since the 'Sandpapergate' ball-tampering scandal that rocked world cricket.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-receives-allan-border-medal-redeems-his-2018-ban-280000" hreflang="en">After ball-tampering ban, David Warner receives Allan Border medal</a>

The last time the pair played in South Africa, almost two years ago, they were sent home in disgrace for attempting to alter the ball with sandpaper during a Cape Town Test. It cost them 12-month suspensions and for Warner, a lifetime leadership ban.

They have since resurrected their careers and are all but forgiven at home, with Warner this week winning a vote by players, officials and media to claim Australian cricket's highest honour, the Allan Border Medal&nbsp;with Smith placed second.

But both players were constantly booed and jeered during last year's one-day World Cup and Ashes series in England, and they are expected to receive similar treatment in South Africa.

<h6><img alt="xa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="343616f8-98b4-4ea7-ab75-331948411190" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_67.jpg" /> 
Steve Smith and David Warner in a press conference after Sandpaper Gate | AFP</h6>

&nbsp;

The batsmen are both in the Australian squad for three Twenty20s and three ODIs beginning February 21. Their T20 on February 26 will mark the tourists' first match at Newlands since the 2018 scandal.

"For me personally, it won't be hard at all," Warner told Sydney radio station 2GB this week. "I just go there and I've got a job to do and that's to score runs and win games for Australia and put us in a good position."

But he added that "obviously, it's going to be very hostile".&nbsp;

"I copped it in England; I actually enjoyed that and played along with it.

"Hopefully, we're showed some respect when we go over to Africa and the things that happen in the past stay there."

Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood said he had no concerns about how Warner and Smith would handle their reception.

"Steve and Dave have ticked off pretty much every box since coming back," the seamer told reporters.

"It's just another one of those and I don't think it'll faze them one bit. They probably play better when it's like this. It's nothing we haven't experienced before... we'll be fine."

Australia will be using the tour to fine-tune preparations for the T20 World Cup on home soil in October -- the only major cricketing trophy the men's team has yet to win.

But they will be without explosive batting star Glenn Maxwell, who pulled out this week to have arthroscopic surgery on his left elbow.

Equally dangerous batsman and wrist-spinner D'Arcy Short, who has been overlooked for a year, has replaced him in both formats.&nbsp;

Wicketkeeper-batsman Matthew Wade and all-rounder Mitch Marsh, who last played limited-overs internationals in 2017 and 2018 respectively, returned to the squads, led by Aaron Finch.

"If you look at our squad selections over the last couple of months, it's all been pretty consistent," said Finch.

"There hasn't been a huge amount of risk-taking in our selections, so we've got confidence in the 14 guys in South Africa that potentially they can take us forward to the T20 World Cup."

Australia ODI squad: Aaron Finch (capt), Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, D'Arcy Short, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa.

Australia T20 squad: Aaron Finch (capt), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Marsh, D'Arcy Short, Jhye Richardson, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa.

Australia opener David Warner is braced for a hostile reception but hopes fans will show "respect" as he and Steve Smith return to South Africa for the first time since the 'Sandpapergate' ball-tampering scandal that rocked world cricket.

Australia opener David Warner is braced for a hostile reception but hopes fans will show "respect" as he and Steve Smith return to South Africa for the first time since the 'Sandpapergate' ball-tampering scandal that rocked world cricket. Also read: After ball-tampering ban, David Warner receives Allan Border medal The last time the pair played in South Africa, almost two years ago, they were sent home in disgrace for attempting to alter the ball with sandpaper during a Cape Town Test. It cost them 12-month suspensions and for Warner, a lifetime leadership ban. They have since resurrected their careers and are all but forgiven at home, with Warner this week winning a vote by players, officials and media to claim Australian cricket's highest honour, the Allan Border Medal with Smith placed second. But both players were constantly booed and jeered during last year's one-day World Cup and Ashes series in England, and they are expected to receive similar treatment in South Africa. Steve Smith and David Warner in a press conference after Sandpaper Gate | AFP The batsmen are both in the Australian squad for three Twenty20s and three ODIs beginning February 21. Their T20 on February 26 will mark the tourists' first match at Newlands since the 2018 scandal. "For me personally, it won't be hard at all," Warner told Sydney radio station 2GB this week. "I just go there and I've got a job to do and that's to score runs and win games for Australia and put us in a good position." But he added that "obviously, it's going to be very hostile". "I copped it in England; I actually enjoyed that and played along with it. "Hopefully, we're showed some respect when we go over to Africa and the things that happen in the past stay there." Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood said he had no concerns about how Warner and Smith would handle their reception. "Steve and Dave have ticked off pretty much every box since coming back," the seamer told reporters. "It's just another one of those and I don't think it'll faze them one bit. They probably play better when it's like this. It's nothing we haven't experienced before... we'll be fine." Australia will be using the tour to fine-tune preparations for the T20 World Cup on home soil in October -- the only major cricketing trophy the men's team has yet to win. But they will be without explosive batting star Glenn Maxwell, who pulled out this week to have arthroscopic surgery on his left elbow. Equally dangerous batsman and wrist-spinner D'Arcy Short, who has been overlooked for a year, has replaced him in both formats. Wicketkeeper-batsman Matthew Wade and all-rounder Mitch Marsh, who last played limited-overs internationals in 2017 and 2018 respectively, returned to the squads, led by Aaron Finch. "If you look at our squad selections over the last couple of months, it's all been pretty consistent," said Finch. "There hasn't been a huge amount of risk-taking in our selections, so we've got confidence in the 14 guys in South Africa that potentially they can take us forward to the T20 World Cup." Australia ODI squad: Aaron Finch (capt), Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, D'Arcy Short, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa. Australia T20 squad: Aaron Finch (capt), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Marsh, D'Arcy Short, Jhye Richardson, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa.

Warner, Smith braced for 'very hostile' South Africa crowds after cheating scandal

Australian opener David Warner won the Allan Border medal after beating his teammate Steve Smith by one vote on Monday.

He was emotional while receiving the 'Australian cricketer of the year' (the medal) after a stunning comeback post the ban imposed on him in the ball-tampering row in South Africa two year ago.

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All smiles! Congratulations to our Belinda Clark and Allan Border Medal winners! 🏅<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusCricketAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusCricketAwards</a> <a href="https://t.co/KFIlCps8rC">pic.twitter.com/KFIlCps8rC</a>
— Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/1226823886278258690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"It was a lot of hard work and commitment to put my hand back up for selection, and to go away and do what I know best which is to try and score as many runs as I can in any competition I'm playing in," said Warner during his acceptance speech.&nbsp;

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David Warner talks about his path back to the top of Australian Cricket after winning his third Allan Border Medal.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusCricketAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusCricketAwards</a> <a href="https://t.co/FeAwlSyopD">pic.twitter.com/FeAwlSyopD</a>
— Aust Cricketers Assn (@ACA_Players) <a href="https://twitter.com/ACA_Players/status/1226827041720287237?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Australian Women's cricketer&nbsp;Ellyse Perry won her&nbsp;third Belinda Clarke Award for her performance for the Women's team last year.

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Ellyse Perry speaks after winning Belinda Clark Award number three🏅🏅🏅<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusCricketAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusCricketAwards</a> <a href="https://t.co/y95ghSKgNq">pic.twitter.com/y95ghSKgNq</a>
— Aust Cricketers Assn (@ACA_Players) <a href="https://twitter.com/ACA_Players/status/1226828917895360514?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Warner was among the three players (Cameron Bancroft and Steve Smith) who were banned by Cricket Australia in March 2018 for ball-tampering incident in Cape Town, South Africa. Steve Smith and David Warner were handed a one-year suspension, whereas Cameron Bancroft was suspended for nine months.&nbsp;

He made a stunning comeback in the game in the year 2019. The prolific opener was Australia's best batsman at the one-day World Cup which was played in England, he scored 647 runs at an average of 71.88, and was in an excellent form in Twenty20 series against Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

David scored a career-high 335 not out in Adelaide against Pakistan's young bowling attack in the two-match Test series.

Warner joins a club of multiple winners of the Border Medal he has won in 2016 and 2017, this list includes Ricky Ponting (2004, 2006, 2007) and Michael Clarke (2005, 2012, 2013), who also shared the medal in 2009.&nbsp;

Shane Watson (2010, 2011) and Smith (2015, 2018) have won it twice.

Full list of the 2020 Australian Cricket Award winners:

Allan Border Medal: David Warner

Belinda Clark Award: Ellyse Perry

Male One Day International Player of the Year: Aaron Finch

Female One Day International Player of the Year: Alyssa Healy

Hall of Fame Induction: Sharon Tredrea

Betty Wilson Young Cricketer of the Year: Tayla Vlaeminck

Bradman Young Cricketer of the Year: Wes Agar

Male Test Player of the Year: Marnus Labuschagne

Female Domestic Player of the Year: Molly Strano

Male Domestic Player of the Year: Shaun Marsh

Hall of Fame Induction: Craig McDermott

Female International Twenty20 Player of the Year: Alyssa Healy

Male International Twenty20 Player of the Year: David Warner

Australian opener David Warner won the Allan Border medal after beating his teammate Steve Smith by one vote on Monday. He was emotional while receiving the 'Australian cricketer of the year' (the medal) after a stunning comeback post the ban imposed on him in the ball-tampering row in South Africa two year ago.

Australian opener David Warner won the Allan Border medal after beating his teammate Steve Smith by one vote on Monday. He was emotional while receiving the 'Australian cricketer of the year' (the medal) after a stunning comeback post the ban imposed on him in the ball-tampering row in South Africa two year ago. All smiles! Congratulations to our Belinda Clark and Allan Border Medal winners! 🏅#AusCricketAwards pic.twitter.com/KFIlCps8rC — Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) February 10, 2020 × "It was a lot of hard work and commitment to put my hand back up for selection, and to go away and do what I know best which is to try and score as many runs as I can in any competition I'm playing in," said Warner during his acceptance speech. David Warner talks about his path back to the top of Australian Cricket after winning his third Allan Border Medal.#AusCricketAwards pic.twitter.com/FeAwlSyopD — Aust Cricketers Assn (@ACA_Players) February 10, 2020 × Australian Women's cricketer Ellyse Perry won her third Belinda Clarke Award for her performance for the Women's team last year. Ellyse Perry speaks after winning Belinda Clark Award number three🏅🏅🏅#AusCricketAwards pic.twitter.com/y95ghSKgNq — Aust Cricketers Assn (@ACA_Players) February 10, 2020 × Warner was among the three players (Cameron Bancroft and Steve Smith) who were banned by Cricket Australia in March 2018 for ball-tampering incident in Cape Town, South Africa. Steve Smith and David Warner were handed a one-year suspension, whereas Cameron Bancroft was suspended for nine months. He made a stunning comeback in the game in the year 2019. The prolific opener was Australia's best batsman at the one-day World Cup which was played in England, he scored 647 runs at an average of 71.88, and was in an excellent form in Twenty20 series against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. David scored a career-high 335 not out in Adelaide against Pakistan's young bowling attack in the two-match Test series. Warner joins a club of multiple winners of the Border Medal he has won in 2016 and 2017, this list includes Ricky Ponting (2004, 2006, 2007) and Michael Clarke (2005, 2012, 2013), who also shared the medal in 2009. Shane Watson (2010, 2011) and Smith (2015, 2018) have won it twice. Full list of the 2020 Australian Cricket Award winners: Allan Border Medal: David Warner Belinda Clark Award: Ellyse Perry Male One Day International Player of the Year: Aaron Finch Female One Day International Player of the Year: Alyssa Healy Hall of Fame Induction: Sharon Tredrea Betty Wilson Young Cricketer of the Year: Tayla Vlaeminck Bradman Young Cricketer of the Year: Wes Agar Male Test Player of the Year: Marnus Labuschagne Female Domestic Player of the Year: Molly Strano Male Domestic Player of the Year: Shaun Marsh Hall of Fame Induction: Craig McDermott Female International Twenty20 Player of the Year: Alyssa Healy Male International Twenty20 Player of the Year: David Warner

After ball-tampering ban, David Warner receives Allan Border medal

World's top-ranked ODI side thrashed Australia by seven&nbsp;wickets to claim the three-match series in Bengaluru. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli from the bat and Mohammed Shami with the bowl ensured that India won the three-match series comfortably.

Sharma, who also scored his first double-hundred in this ground, hit six sixes to score a stylish hundred that kept visitors at bay. Sharma and Kohli's 137-run partnership was broken by Adam Zampa when he sent back Sharma for 119 runs.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-becomes-the-third-fastest-batsman-to-register-9000-odi-runs-275305">Rohit Sharma becomes the third-fastest batsman to register 9,000 ODI runs</a>

However, Shreyas Iyer did not allow Australia to bounce back and kept scoring at a strike rate over 100. Kohli and Iyer's fireworks snatched the match away from Aussies. Kohli was on course of another hundred but his plans were spoilt by Josh Hazlewood when he was clean-bowled on 89.

<img alt="Virat Kohli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2c896373-e98b-40af-a7a6-59caebff3a15" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/sXgQR43d.jpg" />

(Virat Kohli completed 5000 runs as captain in this match | Courtesy: ICC)

Frontline Australian bowlers, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc were brutally thrashed by Indian batsmen and both failed to claim any wicket. Spinners Ashton Agar and Adam Zampa were only bowlers who restricted the run flow and ended up with figures of 1 for 38 runs and 1 for 44 runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Manish Pandey smashed Hazlewood for a boundary to finish off the proceedings. Iyer remained not out on 44 that included one six and six fours.&nbsp;

Sharma was awared player of the match award for his innings. Kohli grabbed the man of the series trophy for two valuable knocks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier, Australia won the toss and this time elected to bat first. Steve Smith once again carried on his impressive form and this time completed the three-figure mark which helped Australia post 286 runs for the loss of nine wickets. Bengaluru is known as a high-scoring venue but wickets at regular interval meant that the visitors were unable to put up an intimidating total.&nbsp;

Shami again proved his worth as he ended up with four wickets for 62 runs. Shami gave India its first breakthrough by dismissing Warner whose unbeaten ton in the first match cost India a humiliating loss. Skipper Aaron Finch was run out after getting a decent start.

Smith and Marnus Labuschagne's partnership was looking threatening but Ravindra Jadeja, like the last match ended their stand and&nbsp;dismissed Labuschagne on 54. In the same over, Jadeja also claimed Mitchell Starc's wicket, who was sent to provide an impetus to Australia's innings.&nbsp;

Indian pacers once again were effective in the death overs and their yorkers not only took wickets but stopped the run-flow.

However, Smith kept holding one end and got out in the 48th over.

Jadeja ended up with two wickets and Jasprit Bumrah, even though did not pick any wicket, but proved his worth at death by restricting the scoring.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

World's top-ranked ODI side thrashed Australia by seven wickets to claim the three-match series in Bengaluru. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli from the bat and Mohammed Shami with the bowl ensured that India won the three-match series comfortably.

World's top-ranked ODI side thrashed Australia by seven wickets to claim the three-match series in Bengaluru. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli from the bat and Mohammed Shami with the bowl ensured that India won the three-match series comfortably. Sharma, who also scored his first double-hundred in this ground, hit six sixes to score a stylish hundred that kept visitors at bay. Sharma and Kohli's 137-run partnership was broken by Adam Zampa when he sent back Sharma for 119 runs. Also read: Rohit Sharma becomes the third-fastest batsman to register 9,000 ODI runs However, Shreyas Iyer did not allow Australia to bounce back and kept scoring at a strike rate over 100. Kohli and Iyer's fireworks snatched the match away from Aussies. Kohli was on course of another hundred but his plans were spoilt by Josh Hazlewood when he was clean-bowled on 89. (Virat Kohli completed 5000 runs as captain in this match | Courtesy: ICC) Frontline Australian bowlers, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc were brutally thrashed by Indian batsmen and both failed to claim any wicket. Spinners Ashton Agar and Adam Zampa were only bowlers who restricted the run flow and ended up with figures of 1 for 38 runs and 1 for 44 runs. Manish Pandey smashed Hazlewood for a boundary to finish off the proceedings. Iyer remained not out on 44 that included one six and six fours. Sharma was awared player of the match award for his innings. Kohli grabbed the man of the series trophy for two valuable knocks. Earlier, Australia won the toss and this time elected to bat first. Steve Smith once again carried on his impressive form and this time completed the three-figure mark which helped Australia post 286 runs for the loss of nine wickets. Bengaluru is known as a high-scoring venue but wickets at regular interval meant that the visitors were unable to put up an intimidating total. Shami again proved his worth as he ended up with four wickets for 62 runs. Shami gave India its first breakthrough by dismissing Warner whose unbeaten ton in the first match cost India a humiliating loss. Skipper Aaron Finch was run out after getting a decent start. Smith and Marnus Labuschagne's partnership was looking threatening but Ravindra Jadeja, like the last match ended their stand and dismissed Labuschagne on 54. In the same over, Jadeja also claimed Mitchell Starc's wicket, who was sent to provide an impetus to Australia's innings. Indian pacers once again were effective in the death overs and their yorkers not only took wickets but stopped the run-flow. However, Smith kept holding one end and got out in the 48th over. Jadeja ended up with two wickets and Jasprit Bumrah, even though did not pick any wicket, but proved his worth at death by restricting the scoring.

India vs Australia 3rd ODI: Rohit Sharma, Shami shine as hosts claim series

After losing the toss in Wankhede, India came down to bat. Amidst speculations, India chose to go out with all three openers (Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Shikhar Dhawan). Rohit Sharma was back in the team after being rested for series against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-odi-virat-kohli-looks-forward-to-equal-sachin-tendulkar-and-go-past-ricky-ponting-274161">India vs Australia, 1st ODI: Virat Kohli looks forward to equal Tendulkar's record and go past Ricky Ponting</a>

Rohit Sharma failed to show his magic with the bat against the Aussies.&nbsp;He got out early after he fell for Starc's trick-ball and ended up giving David Warner an easy catch.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-odi-in-form-indian-team-to-take-on-confident-aussies-274112">India vs Australia, 1st ODI: In-form Indian team to take on confident Aussies</a>

Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul continued their fine form and had 121 runs partnership. This partnership has been the backbone of the scoreline.

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Innings Break! 
 
After being put to bat first, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> are all out for 255 in 49.1 overs. 
 
Will it be enough on this Wankhede wicket? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/Wg9SZfDaXN">pic.twitter.com/Wg9SZfDaXN</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1217051555871903745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Rahul missed his chance to make half-century by a whisker after he was caught out by Smith, he scored 47 runs.&nbsp;

Dhawan got out after scoring 74 runs, he was caught out by Ashton Agar.&nbsp;

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He was watchful at the start but has now opened up. Take a look at <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SDhawan25</a>'s twin fours as he takes on Pat Cummins. 
 
Full video here - <a href="https://t.co/pFmxrvi54O">https://t.co/pFmxrvi54O</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/eD2rfOtyyt">pic.twitter.com/eD2rfOtyyt</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1217017579123830784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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People hoped Virat Kohli to make his record-breaking century, but he fell victim to Adam Zampa after he got out after being caught by the spinner for just 16 runs. Virat now has just two innings to break the records in this series.&nbsp;

Shreyas Iyer just scored 4 runs and was caught behind by Alex Carey.&nbsp;

After losing 4 wickets in just 6 overs and the score of 164/5, Indian innings hit a massive speed-breaker. Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja tried stabilizing the innings.&nbsp;

Their 49 runs partnership was the last stabilizing element for the Indian innings. Ravindra Jadeja got out for 25 and Rishab Pant got out 28 runs.&nbsp;

Kuldeep Yadav and Shami's scores gave India a final push and helped India pose 255.&nbsp;

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ALL OUT! The Indian innings comes to a close with the score at 255 off 49.1 overs. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> scorecard: <a href="https://t.co/QmzEB7zaP7">https://t.co/QmzEB7zaP7</a> <a href="https://t.co/G0Qq1650oL">pic.twitter.com/G0Qq1650oL</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1217050032827858944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Australian Bowlers did a wonderful job by restricting India to a modest total. Each bowler had a wicket to his name.

Mitchell Starc impressed with the ball, he took 3 wickets. Rohit Sharma, Shreyas Iyer, and Shardul Thakur fell victim to him.&nbsp;

Pat Cummins and Kane Richardson scalped two wickets each. Adam&nbsp;

Zampa and Ashton Agar took one wicket apiece.

Australia is yet to bat, Indian bowlers have to perform well to defend the average total. 
&nbsp;

After losing the toss in Wankhede, India came down to bat. Amidst speculations, India chose to go out with all three openers (Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Shikhar Dhawan).

After losing the toss in Wankhede, India came down to bat. Amidst speculations, India chose to go out with all three openers (Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Shikhar Dhawan). Rohit Sharma was back in the team after being rested for series against Sri Lanka. Also read: India vs Australia, 1st ODI: Virat Kohli looks forward to equal Tendulkar's record and go past Ricky Ponting Rohit Sharma failed to show his magic with the bat against the Aussies. He got out early after he fell for Starc's trick-ball and ended up giving David Warner an easy catch. Also read: India vs Australia, 1st ODI: In-form Indian team to take on confident Aussies Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul continued their fine form and had 121 runs partnership. This partnership has been the backbone of the scoreline. Innings Break! After being put to bat first, #TeamIndia are all out for 255 in 49.1 overs. Will it be enough on this Wankhede wicket? #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/Wg9SZfDaXN — BCCI (@BCCI) January 14, 2020 × Rahul missed his chance to make half-century by a whisker after he was caught out by Smith, he scored 47 runs. Dhawan got out after scoring 74 runs, he was caught out by Ashton Agar. He was watchful at the start but has now opened up. Take a look at @SDhawan25's twin fours as he takes on Pat Cummins. Full video here - https://t.co/pFmxrvi54O #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/eD2rfOtyyt — BCCI (@BCCI) January 14, 2020 × People hoped Virat Kohli to make his record-breaking century, but he fell victim to Adam Zampa after he got out after being caught by the spinner for just 16 runs. Virat now has just two innings to break the records in this series. Shreyas Iyer just scored 4 runs and was caught behind by Alex Carey. After losing 4 wickets in just 6 overs and the score of 164/5, Indian innings hit a massive speed-breaker. Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja tried stabilizing the innings. Their 49 runs partnership was the last stabilizing element for the Indian innings. Ravindra Jadeja got out for 25 and Rishab Pant got out 28 runs. Kuldeep Yadav and Shami's scores gave India a final push and helped India pose 255. ALL OUT! The Indian innings comes to a close with the score at 255 off 49.1 overs. #INDvAUS scorecard: https://t.co/QmzEB7zaP7 pic.twitter.com/G0Qq1650oL — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 14, 2020 × Australian Bowlers did a wonderful job by restricting India to a modest total. Each bowler had a wicket to his name. Mitchell Starc impressed with the ball, he took 3 wickets. Rohit Sharma, Shreyas Iyer, and Shardul Thakur fell victim to him. Pat Cummins and Kane Richardson scalped two wickets each. Adam Zampa and Ashton Agar took one wicket apiece. Australia is yet to bat, Indian bowlers have to perform well to defend the average total.

India vs Australia, 1st ODI: Starc knocks out Team India; Kohli misses chance to break record

Steve Smith on Saturday became the fastest man to score 7,000 Test runs, shattering a record that had stood since 1946, while moving past Donald Bradman to become Australia's 11th highest scorer.

The 30-year-old took a single off Muhammad Musa during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dangerous-warner-frustrates-pakistan-in-second-test-rain-delays-play-265227">second Test against Pakistan </a>in Adelaide to reach the milestone and take possession of a record held for 73 years by English great Wally Hammond.

Hammond reached the mark in 131 innings, while Smith, who played his first Test nine years ago, made the grade in his 126th.

India's Virender Sehwag is the third fastest in 134 innings.

"The fastest to 7K - you're a star Steve Smith!," tweeted Cricket Australia.

Smith also passed the legendary Bradman's 6,996 Test runs. It took Smith 70 Tests to do so, while Bradman needed only 52.

The 30-year-old's heroics at the Ashes in England this year saw him widely labelled the best since Bradman, considered Test cricket's greatest ever when he scored a mammoth 774 runs in just seven innings.

He had the opportunity to pass both Bradman and Hammond in the first Test against Pakistan in Brisbane, but fell for just four in a rare failure.

In an insight into Smith's determination to be the best, he said after missing out in Brisbane that he punishes himself when the runs do not flow.

"I always punish myself when I get no runs, just like I reward myself when I score runs with a chocolate bar at the end of the night if I get a hundred," he said.

"So yeah, if I get no runs I always like to have a run or go to the gym or do something just to give myself a bit of a punishment."

Smith still has 10 other Australian players above him in total Test runs scored.

Greg Chappell (7,110) is his next target, but he has a mountain to climb to reach Ricky Ponting, who amassed 13,378 runs in his 168 Tests.

Steve Smith on Saturday became the fastest man to score 7,000 Test runs, shattering a record that had stood since 1946, while moving past Donald Bradman to become Australia's 11th highest scorer.

Steve Smith on Saturday became the fastest man to score 7,000 Test runs, shattering a record that had stood since 1946, while moving past Donald Bradman to become Australia's 11th highest scorer. The 30-year-old took a single off Muhammad Musa during the second Test against Pakistan in Adelaide to reach the milestone and take possession of a record held for 73 years by English great Wally Hammond. Hammond reached the mark in 131 innings, while Smith, who played his first Test nine years ago, made the grade in his 126th. India's Virender Sehwag is the third fastest in 134 innings. "The fastest to 7K - you're a star Steve Smith!," tweeted Cricket Australia. Smith also passed the legendary Bradman's 6,996 Test runs. It took Smith 70 Tests to do so, while Bradman needed only 52. The 30-year-old's heroics at the Ashes in England this year saw him widely labelled the best since Bradman, considered Test cricket's greatest ever when he scored a mammoth 774 runs in just seven innings. He had the opportunity to pass both Bradman and Hammond in the first Test against Pakistan in Brisbane, but fell for just four in a rare failure. In an insight into Smith's determination to be the best, he said after missing out in Brisbane that he punishes himself when the runs do not flow. "I always punish myself when I get no runs, just like I reward myself when I score runs with a chocolate bar at the end of the night if I get a hundred," he said. "So yeah, if I get no runs I always like to have a run or go to the gym or do something just to give myself a bit of a punishment." Smith still has 10 other Australian players above him in total Test runs scored. Greg Chappell (7,110) is his next target, but he has a mountain to climb to reach Ricky Ponting, who amassed 13,378 runs in his 168 Tests.

Steve Smith becomes fastest man to reach 7,000 runs

Former Australia captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../cricket-steve-smith-fires-australia-to-victory- over-pakistan-in-t20-match-260229">Steve Smith</a>, who was banned for a year for ball-tampering, says he does not feel hard done by despite a much lighter sanction handed down to West Indies batsman<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../west-indies-nicholas-pooran-faces-four-match- suspension-for-ball-tampering-261813"> Nicholas Pooran</a> for the same offence.

Pooran was given a four-game ban during the third one-day international against Afghanistan, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../katy-perry-plans-record-breaking-show-at- womens-t20-final-261761">the International Cricket Council</a> (ICC) said last week.

Smith was initially banned for a test by the ICC after admitting that Australia had tried to alter the condition of the ball during the Newlands test against South Africa in March 2018.

But governing body Cricket Australia subsequently banned him for 12 months along with team mate David Warner, and stripped both of their leadership roles.

Opening batsman Cameron Bancroft, the third player involved at Cape Town, received a nine-month suspension.

"Everyone is different, every board is different, and the way they deal with certain issues,” Smith, who remains barred from leadership roles until March 2020, told reporters in Brisbane on Monday.

"For me, I copped it on the chin ... it is what it is.

"I don’t feel hard done by. It was a long time ago now. I’ve moved past it and I’m focusing on the present."

Smith's ban from international and domestic cricket expired in March and he was rushed back into the Australia squad for the one-day World Cup in England.

He also played a starring role with the bat in Australia's retention of the Ashes in England in September.

Smith played with 24-year old Pooran at Barbados in the Caribbean Premier League last year while serving his ban, the terms of which allowed the Australian to play in non-international competitions overseas.

"I know Nicholas, I’ve played a bit of cricket with him and he’s a talented player and someone with a bright future," Smith said of wicketkeeper-batsman Pooran, who has played 16 one-day internationals and 14 Twenty20 internationals.

"I think he’ll learn from his mistake and move past it ... I think he’s going to be an exceptional player in white-ball cricket."

Smith was fined 25 percent of his match fee for a code of conduct violation after showing dissent with the umpire's decision when he was given out caught behind when batting for New South Wales against Western Australia last week in a Sheffield Shield game.

The master batsman subsequently apologised to his team mates for setting a poor example.

"Of course, I’ll still make mistakes, I’m a human being, we all do," he said on Monday.

"But being able to catch yourself and the way you’re thinking is something I’ve learnt and something I’ll continue to work on and continue and get better at."

Former Australia captain Steve Smith, who was banned for a year for ball-tampering, says he does not feel hard done by despite a much lighter sanction handed down to West Indies batsman Nicholas Pooran for the same offence.

Former Australia captain Steve Smith, who was banned for a year for ball-tampering, says he does not feel hard done by despite a much lighter sanction handed down to West Indies batsman Nicholas Pooran for the same offence. Pooran was given a four-game ban during the third one-day international against Afghanistan, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said last week. Smith was initially banned for a test by the ICC after admitting that Australia had tried to alter the condition of the ball during the Newlands test against South Africa in March 2018. But governing body Cricket Australia subsequently banned him for 12 months along with team mate David Warner, and stripped both of their leadership roles. Opening batsman Cameron Bancroft, the third player involved at Cape Town, received a nine-month suspension. "Everyone is different, every board is different, and the way they deal with certain issues,” Smith, who remains barred from leadership roles until March 2020, told reporters in Brisbane on Monday. "For me, I copped it on the chin ... it is what it is. "I don’t feel hard done by. It was a long time ago now. I’ve moved past it and I’m focusing on the present." Smith's ban from international and domestic cricket expired in March and he was rushed back into the Australia squad for the one-day World Cup in England. He also played a starring role with the bat in Australia's retention of the Ashes in England in September. Smith played with 24-year old Pooran at Barbados in the Caribbean Premier League last year while serving his ban, the terms of which allowed the Australian to play in non-international competitions overseas. "I know Nicholas, I’ve played a bit of cricket with him and he’s a talented player and someone with a bright future," Smith said of wicketkeeper-batsman Pooran, who has played 16 one-day internationals and 14 Twenty20 internationals. "I think he’ll learn from his mistake and move past it ... I think he’s going to be an exceptional player in white-ball cricket." Smith was fined 25 percent of his match fee for a code of conduct violation after showing dissent with the umpire's decision when he was given out caught behind when batting for New South Wales against Western Australia last week in a Sheffield Shield game. The master batsman subsequently apologised to his team mates for setting a poor example. "Of course, I’ll still make mistakes, I’m a human being, we all do," he said on Monday. "But being able to catch yourself and the way you’re thinking is something I’ve learnt and something I’ll continue to work on and continue and get better at."

Steve Smith shrugs off Nicholas Pooran's light ball-tampering ban

Australia continued their recent dominance in T20 as they thrashed Pakistan in the third and final match of the series to claim the series 2-0.

It was a completely one-sided affair as the hosts first restricted Pakistan to less than a modest score and then wrapped up the match with more than eight overs to spare. Australia rested star pacer Pat Cummins but his absence was not missed by the hosts as the Australian pacers shared six wickets amongst themselves.&nbsp;

After Australia won the toss, spearhead Mitchell Starc showed his intentions early in the match as he removed captain Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan for 6 and 0. Pakistan couldn't recover after losing three wickets for 22 runs and wickets at regular interval meant that Pakistan ended with a score of 106 runs.&nbsp;

Kane Richardson claimed three wickets&nbsp;in the all-round show by Australian bowlers. The star of the bowling, however, was the Man of the Match&nbsp;Sean Abbott who took two wickets in the match but gave away only 14 runs in four overs. Starc also claimed two wickets.

David Warner and skipper Aaron Finch showed no mercy to Pakistani bowlers as Australia finished off the match in 11.5 overs with all the wickets intact. Warner and Finch were not out at 48 and 52 runs respectively.&nbsp;

Steve Smith was awarded Player of the Series award.

In the previous match too, Australia won comfortably by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-steve-smith-fires-australia-to-victory-over-pakistan-in-t20-match-260229">seven wickets</a>. Steve Smith was the star of that match with an unbeaten score of 80. Australia were also ahead in the first match of the series before it was called off due to rain.&nbsp;

After a clean-sweep&nbsp;against Sri Lanka at home, this is another series win for Australia. Australia are to host T20 world cup next year.&nbsp;

For Pakistan, the only positives of the series were Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed. Azam scored most runs in the series with an average of 57.5 and was followed by Ahmed who remained unbeaten in the tournament and scored 108 runs.&nbsp;

Richardson took most wickets (6) in the series. Ashton Agar and Starc ended with four wickets.

Australia continued their recent dominance in T20 as they thrashed Pakistan in the third and final match of the series to claim the series 2-0. It was a completely one-sided affair as the hosts first restricted Pakistan to less than a modest score and then wrapped up the match with more than eight overs to spare.

Australia continued their recent dominance in T20 as they thrashed Pakistan in the third and final match of the series to claim the series 2-0. It was a completely one-sided affair as the hosts first restricted Pakistan to less than a modest score and then wrapped up the match with more than eight overs to spare. Australia rested star pacer Pat Cummins but his absence was not missed by the hosts as the Australian pacers shared six wickets amongst themselves. After Australia won the toss, spearhead Mitchell Starc showed his intentions early in the match as he removed captain Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan for 6 and 0. Pakistan couldn't recover after losing three wickets for 22 runs and wickets at regular interval meant that Pakistan ended with a score of 106 runs. Kane Richardson claimed three wickets in the all-round show by Australian bowlers. The star of the bowling, however, was the Man of the Match Sean Abbott who took two wickets in the match but gave away only 14 runs in four overs. Starc also claimed two wickets. David Warner and skipper Aaron Finch showed no mercy to Pakistani bowlers as Australia finished off the match in 11.5 overs with all the wickets intact. Warner and Finch were not out at 48 and 52 runs respectively. Steve Smith was awarded Player of the Series award. In the previous match too, Australia won comfortably by seven wickets. Steve Smith was the star of that match with an unbeaten score of 80. Australia were also ahead in the first match of the series before it was called off due to rain. After a clean-sweep against Sri Lanka at home, this is another series win for Australia. Australia are to host T20 world cup next year. For Pakistan, the only positives of the series were Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed. Azam scored most runs in the series with an average of 57.5 and was followed by Ahmed who remained unbeaten in the tournament and scored 108 runs. Richardson took most wickets (6) in the series. Ashton Agar and Starc ended with four wickets.

Aus vs Pak, 2nd T20: Australia thrash Pakistan to win series 2-0

Australia on Tuesday named Steve Smith and David Warner in their Twenty20 squad for home series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan as selectors firm up plans for next year's World Cup on home soil.

Australia host Sri Lanka in three T20 internationals starting in Adelaide on Oct. 27 before facing top-ranked Pakistan in three matches next month.

"It is almost a year to the day until Australia hosts the men's T20 World Cup and we have selected this squad with that in mind," selector Trevor Hohns said in a statement.

"The squad we have selected is quite role specific and we believe it gives us the flexibility to thrive in all match conditions.

"We're delighted to welcome Smith and Warner back ... Steve is a world-class batsman in all formats while Warner is Australia's highest ever T20I runs-scorer."

Smith is set to play his first T20 international since 2016 and will look to continue the fine form he has shown since his return from a one-year ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

The 30-year-old smashed 774 runs in four Ashes tests against England recently as Australia retained the urn.

Warner scored 692 runs in this year's IPL for Sunrisers Hyderabad and 647 runs in the 50-over World Cup in England as Australia reached the semi-finals.

Australia dropped all-rounder Marcus Stoinis while Ashton Turner was preferred ahead of fellow spinner Nathan Lyon. They also included the big-hitting Glenn Maxwell.

The 14-man squad captained by Aaron Finch will travel to Adelaide on Oct. 24 before the first T20 against Sri Lanka.

Australia T20 squad: Aaron Finch (captain), Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell, Ben McDermott, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Billy Stanlake, Mitchell Starc, Ashton Turner, Andrew Tye, David Warner, Adam Zampa. 
&nbsp;

Australia on Tuesday named Steve Smith and David Warner in their Twenty20 squad for home series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan as selectors firm up plans for next year's World Cup on home soil.

Australia on Tuesday named Steve Smith and David Warner in their Twenty20 squad for home series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan as selectors firm up plans for next year's World Cup on home soil. Australia host Sri Lanka in three T20 internationals starting in Adelaide on Oct. 27 before facing top-ranked Pakistan in three matches next month. "It is almost a year to the day until Australia hosts the men's T20 World Cup and we have selected this squad with that in mind," selector Trevor Hohns said in a statement. "The squad we have selected is quite role specific and we believe it gives us the flexibility to thrive in all match conditions. "We're delighted to welcome Smith and Warner back ... Steve is a world-class batsman in all formats while Warner is Australia's highest ever T20I runs-scorer." Smith is set to play his first T20 international since 2016 and will look to continue the fine form he has shown since his return from a one-year ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. The 30-year-old smashed 774 runs in four Ashes tests against England recently as Australia retained the urn. Warner scored 692 runs in this year's IPL for Sunrisers Hyderabad and 647 runs in the 50-over World Cup in England as Australia reached the semi-finals. Australia dropped all-rounder Marcus Stoinis while Ashton Turner was preferred ahead of fellow spinner Nathan Lyon. They also included the big-hitting Glenn Maxwell. The 14-man squad captained by Aaron Finch will travel to Adelaide on Oct. 24 before the first T20 against Sri Lanka. Australia T20 squad: Aaron Finch (captain), Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell, Ben McDermott, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Billy Stanlake, Mitchell Starc, Ashton Turner, Andrew Tye, David Warner, Adam Zampa.

Smith, Warner in Australia T20 squad for Sri Lanka, Pakistan series

Steve Smith returned to international cricket to a chorus of boos but he walked off the pitch at the Oval to a standing ovation after a summer of Ashes redemption.

The former Australia captain enjoyed a remarkable series in England, scoring a total of 774 runs in just seven innings and played a pivotal role in his side's two victories in the drawn series.

The catch by Ben Stokes that sent Smith on his way on Sunday ended an astonishing run of scores -- 144 and 142 at Edgbaston, 92 at Lords, 211 and 82 at Old Trafford, and 80 and 23 at the Oval.

The 30-year-old made his official return to international cricket in June at the World Cup after serving a year-long ban for ball-tampering and was booed by the crowd in Bristol.

Smith had a decent campaign in the 50-over showpiece but did not set the world alight as Australia reached the semi-finals, where they were beaten by eventual champions England.

But he changed gear when the Ashes started, seemingly hungry to make up for lost time as he&nbsp;dominated the England attack, making two centuries in Australia's comfortable win in the first Test at Edgbaston.

Asked when he felt he was back to his best, an exhausted but "proud" Smith said&nbsp;it was after his first innings at Edgbaston, when he rescued his side, who had stumbled to 122-8.

"That gave me a lot of confidence," he said. "That was probably my favourite innings of the whole series that I played.

"The first Test match, as we know, is always incredibly important in an Ashes series and to sort of pull the team out of a bit of trouble at the time and give me that confidence straight up that I could slot back in and perform, that gave me a lot of confidence.

"It was a long 18 months out of the game and I've got a lot of people to thank, in particular my wife."

Smith's series was interrupted after he was felled by a Jofra Archer bouncer in the second Test at Lord's, forcing him to miss three innings.

Winning return

But he returned at Old Trafford to make a monumental double century in another victory for Australia.

His 80 in the first innings in the final Test at the Oval was his 10th consecutive fifty in Ashes Tests.

Australia were chasing 399 to win the series in London but it was always a tall order and Smith was unable to produce a miracle, falling for 23.

His run haul is fifth on the list of highest tallies in an Ashes series.

The man at the top of that list, inevitably, is his late compatriot Donald Bradman, who scored 974 in seven innings in 1930. But the fact that Smith is even in the same conversation as the man widely regarded as the greatest batsman in history is testament to his genius.

Smith averages 64.56 after 68 Tests, second only to Bradman in the all-time list.&nbsp;

Bradman himself averaged a mind-boggling 99.94 in his 52-Test career.

Regarded as the best "problem solver" in cricket today by Australia coach Justin Langer, Smith's batting is marked by an unorthodox shuffle across the crease and he is a fidgeter between deliveries, incessantly adjusting his pads and clothing.

But he has the ability of all great players to make batting look ridiculously easy and often appears to be playing a different game from his teammates.

Smith said he appreciated the reaction from the crowd in London, although he was disappointed not to have ended the series with a flourish.

"It was a nice reception as I walked off," he said. "It would have been nice if I'd had a few more runs under my belt in this game.

"I've given it my all since I've been here for the last four-and-a-half-months in every Test match that we've played and I didn't have much left to give today.

"I'm pretty cooked to be honest, mentally and physically. I'm looking forward to a nice couple of weeks' rest now before getting into the Australian summer."

Steve Smith returned to international cricket to a chorus of boos but he walked off the pitch at the Oval to a standing ovation after a summer of Ashes redemption.

Steve Smith returned to international cricket to a chorus of boos but he walked off the pitch at the Oval to a standing ovation after a summer of Ashes redemption. The former Australia captain enjoyed a remarkable series in England, scoring a total of 774 runs in just seven innings and played a pivotal role in his side's two victories in the drawn series. The catch by Ben Stokes that sent Smith on his way on Sunday ended an astonishing run of scores -- 144 and 142 at Edgbaston, 92 at Lords, 211 and 82 at Old Trafford, and 80 and 23 at the Oval. The 30-year-old made his official return to international cricket in June at the World Cup after serving a year-long ban for ball-tampering and was booed by the crowd in Bristol. Smith had a decent campaign in the 50-over showpiece but did not set the world alight as Australia reached the semi-finals, where they were beaten by eventual champions England. But he changed gear when the Ashes started, seemingly hungry to make up for lost time as he dominated the England attack, making two centuries in Australia's comfortable win in the first Test at Edgbaston. Asked when he felt he was back to his best, an exhausted but "proud" Smith said it was after his first innings at Edgbaston, when he rescued his side, who had stumbled to 122-8. "That gave me a lot of confidence," he said. "That was probably my favourite innings of the whole series that I played. "The first Test match, as we know, is always incredibly important in an Ashes series and to sort of pull the team out of a bit of trouble at the time and give me that confidence straight up that I could slot back in and perform, that gave me a lot of confidence. "It was a long 18 months out of the game and I've got a lot of people to thank, in particular my wife." Smith's series was interrupted after he was felled by a Jofra Archer bouncer in the second Test at Lord's, forcing him to miss three innings. Winning return But he returned at Old Trafford to make a monumental double century in another victory for Australia. His 80 in the first innings in the final Test at the Oval was his 10th consecutive fifty in Ashes Tests. Australia were chasing 399 to win the series in London but it was always a tall order and Smith was unable to produce a miracle, falling for 23. His run haul is fifth on the list of highest tallies in an Ashes series. The man at the top of that list, inevitably, is his late compatriot Donald Bradman, who scored 974 in seven innings in 1930. But the fact that Smith is even in the same conversation as the man widely regarded as the greatest batsman in history is testament to his genius. Smith averages 64.56 after 68 Tests, second only to Bradman in the all-time list. Bradman himself averaged a mind-boggling 99.94 in his 52-Test career. Regarded as the best "problem solver" in cricket today by Australia coach Justin Langer, Smith's batting is marked by an unorthodox shuffle across the crease and he is a fidgeter between deliveries, incessantly adjusting his pads and clothing. But he has the ability of all great players to make batting look ridiculously easy and often appears to be playing a different game from his teammates. Smith said he appreciated the reaction from the crowd in London, although he was disappointed not to have ended the series with a flourish. "It was a nice reception as I walked off," he said. "It would have been nice if I'd had a few more runs under my belt in this game. "I've given it my all since I've been here for the last four-and-a-half-months in every Test match that we've played and I didn't have much left to give today. "I'm pretty cooked to be honest, mentally and physically. I'm looking forward to a nice couple of weeks' rest now before getting into the Australian summer."

Steve Smith 'proud' after summer of Ashes redemption

Australia batsman Steve Smith and fast bowler Pat Cummins remain at the top of the ICC Test rankings after the Ashes, which culminated with a 135-run victory for England on Sunday as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-win-fifth-test-to-square-ashes-series-249870">five-match series ended in a 2-2 draw</a>.

Smith's scores of 80 and 23 have helped him remain 34 points ahead of Virat Kohli with 937 rating points, an incredible effort since he started the series in the fourth position with 857 points before his surge that came courtesy 774 runs in four Tests.

Cummins too is well clear of other bowlers as he enjoys a lead of 57 points over second-placed Kagiso Rabada after finishing as the top wicket-taker with 29 scalps.

Other players from Australia to make notable gains are Matthew Wade and Mitchell Marsh. Wade's fourth Test century has lifted him 32 places to 78th, his highest since being ranked 52nd in March 2013. Marsh's maiden five-wicket haul has helped him gain 20 places to reach 54th place, his best since March 2017.

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🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿's Jos Buttler and Rory Burns have taken giant leaps in the <a href="https://twitter.com/MRFWorldwide?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MRFWorldwide</a> ICC Test Rankings for batting after the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a>. 
 
Matthew Wade has also gained big after his 💯 at The Oval. 
 
Latest rankings ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/kQBAqvkrLp">https://t.co/kQBAqvkrLp</a> <a href="https://t.co/lb94Pna8KB">pic.twitter.com/lb94Pna8KB</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1173517968413794304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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David Warner has lost seven places after the Test to finish in 24th position among batsmen. He has slid 19 places during the five matches with a tally of 95 runs in 10 innings, starting the series in the fifth position. Josh Hazlewood has dropped from 12th to eighth after briefly making to top-10 among bowlers.

For England, fast bowler Jofra Archer has moved into the top 40 for the first time after grabbing six first-innings wickets while left-arm seamer Sam Curran has gained six slots to reach 65th position with three wickets.

Jos Buttler's scores of 70 and 47 have lifted him back into the top 30 for the first time since January this year while Joe Denly's career-best score of 94 has taken him to a career-highest 57th place. Rory Burns has also moved up five places to the 56th position.

Australia batsman Steve Smith and fast bowler Pat Cummins remain at the top of the ICC Test rankings after the Ashes, which culminated with a 135-run victory for England on Sunday as the five-match series ended in a 2-2 draw.

Australia batsman Steve Smith and fast bowler Pat Cummins remain at the top of the ICC Test rankings after the Ashes, which culminated with a 135-run victory for England on Sunday as the five-match series ended in a 2-2 draw. Smith's scores of 80 and 23 have helped him remain 34 points ahead of Virat Kohli with 937 rating points, an incredible effort since he started the series in the fourth position with 857 points before his surge that came courtesy 774 runs in four Tests. Cummins too is well clear of other bowlers as he enjoys a lead of 57 points over second-placed Kagiso Rabada after finishing as the top wicket-taker with 29 scalps. Other players from Australia to make notable gains are Matthew Wade and Mitchell Marsh. Wade's fourth Test century has lifted him 32 places to 78th, his highest since being ranked 52nd in March 2013. Marsh's maiden five-wicket haul has helped him gain 20 places to reach 54th place, his best since March 2017. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿's Jos Buttler and Rory Burns have taken giant leaps in the @MRFWorldwide ICC Test Rankings for batting after the #Ashes. Matthew Wade has also gained big after his 💯 at The Oval. Latest rankings ▶️ https://t.co/kQBAqvkrLp pic.twitter.com/lb94Pna8KB — ICC (@ICC) September 16, 2019 × David Warner has lost seven places after the Test to finish in 24th position among batsmen. He has slid 19 places during the five matches with a tally of 95 runs in 10 innings, starting the series in the fifth position. Josh Hazlewood has dropped from 12th to eighth after briefly making to top-10 among bowlers. For England, fast bowler Jofra Archer has moved into the top 40 for the first time after grabbing six first-innings wickets while left-arm seamer Sam Curran has gained six slots to reach 65th position with three wickets. Jos Buttler's scores of 70 and 47 have lifted him back into the top 30 for the first time since January this year while Joe Denly's career-best score of 94 has taken him to a career-highest 57th place. Rory Burns has also moved up five places to the 56th position.

Steve Smith, Pat Cummins remain on top in Test rankings after Ashes

From batting woes to pace aces, major takeaways from Ashes 2019

Run-machine Steve Smith described himself as being "pretty cooked" after his prolific bat ensured <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-can-be-proud-of-our-effort-says-tim-paine-after-retaining-ashes-249933">Australia</a> will return home having retained the coveted urn after their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-win-fifth-test-to-square-ashes-series-249870">2-2 drawn Ashes series</a> against England.

Smith's tally of 774 runs from seven innings with a Bradmanesque 110-plus average in a bowler-dominated series illustrates how he single-handedly carried Australia's run-scoring burden.

Marnus Labuschagne was the next Australian with 353, while Matthew Wade, with 337, was the only other Australian to have aggregated 200 or more.

"I have given it my all while I have been here for the last four-and-a-half months but I didn't have much more to give today," Smith told reporters on Sunday after England salvaged a win at The Oval to ensure the first drawn Ashes series since 1972.

"I was pretty cooked mentally and physically and I am looking forward to a couple of weeks off and heading back for the Australian summer."

England's two victories in the series came in a match Smith missed after a blow to his neck and one in which he scored his only sub-50 score of the series.

Smith's prolific run not only restored him at the top of Test batting rankings but also won over the hostile English fans, who booed him throughout the preceding World Cup and much of the Ashes series.

"It was a nice reception when I walked off, would have been nice to have a few more runs under my belt," Smith said after his dismissal for 23 in the second innings at The Oval.

Few expected the 30-year-old to rediscover the form he had shown before being banished to the sidelines for 12 months for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year.

But he put to rest such fears by smashing a magnificent 144 on day one of the Edgbaston Test, scoring more than half of the team total of 284 in the series opener.

"First Test is always important in an Ashes series and to pull the team out of trouble gave me the confidence to know I could slot straight back in and perform," Smith said.

Run-machine Steve Smith described himself as being "pretty cooked" after his prolific bat ensured Australia will return home having retained the coveted urn after their 2-2 drawn Ashes series against England.

Run-machine Steve Smith described himself as being "pretty cooked" after his prolific bat ensured Australia will return home having retained the coveted urn after their 2-2 drawn Ashes series against England. Smith's tally of 774 runs from seven innings with a Bradmanesque 110-plus average in a bowler-dominated series illustrates how he single-handedly carried Australia's run-scoring burden. Marnus Labuschagne was the next Australian with 353, while Matthew Wade, with 337, was the only other Australian to have aggregated 200 or more. "I have given it my all while I have been here for the last four-and-a-half months but I didn't have much more to give today," Smith told reporters on Sunday after England salvaged a win at The Oval to ensure the first drawn Ashes series since 1972. "I was pretty cooked mentally and physically and I am looking forward to a couple of weeks off and heading back for the Australian summer." England's two victories in the series came in a match Smith missed after a blow to his neck and one in which he scored his only sub-50 score of the series. Smith's prolific run not only restored him at the top of Test batting rankings but also won over the hostile English fans, who booed him throughout the preceding World Cup and much of the Ashes series. "It was a nice reception when I walked off, would have been nice to have a few more runs under my belt," Smith said after his dismissal for 23 in the second innings at The Oval. Few expected the 30-year-old to rediscover the form he had shown before being banished to the sidelines for 12 months for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year. But he put to rest such fears by smashing a magnificent 144 on day one of the Edgbaston Test, scoring more than half of the team total of 284 in the series opener. "First Test is always important in an Ashes series and to pull the team out of trouble gave me the confidence to know I could slot straight back in and perform," Smith said.

Prolific Steve Smith says 'pretty cooked' after Ashes effort

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Australia batsman Steve Smith who is having a remarkable Ashes, has broken the record of former Pakistan skipper Inzamam-ul-Haq of scoring most fifty-plus scores against a single team in Test cricket.

Smith broke the record on the second day of the fifth and final Ashes Test at the Oval as he scripted his sixth 50 plus score against England in the ongoing series.

Inzamam had scored nine fifty-plus scores against England, whereas Smith now has 10.

The 30-year-old Smith now has 751 runs in the series, as he played a knock of 80 runs in the fifth Test. However, he failed to score a century and was dismissed for his lowest knock in the series.

Smith is currently the number one ranked batsman in the ICC Test batsmen rankings and he has a lead of 34 points over Indian skipper Virat Kohli.

England ended day two of the final Test in a strong position after bundling out Australia for 225 in the first innings, gaining a lead of 69 runs here at the Oval.

After bowling out the Aussies, England just had to face four overs and openers Rory Burns and Joe Denly ensured they do not lose a wicket and the side finished the day at 9/0, taking the lead to 78.

In pursuit of England's first innings score, Australia once again got off to a bad start as the side lost its openers David Warner (5) and Marcus Harris (3) in quick succession as both batsmen were sent to the pavilion by Jofra Archer.

Smith and Marnus Labuschagne retrieved the innings for Aussies as they put up a 69-run stand, but their resistance was cut short by Archer as he had Labuschagne (48) plum in front to reduce Australia to 83/3.

The 30-year-old Smith (80) however kept on batting at one end, but he was finally dismissed for his lowest score of the series by Chris Woakes restricting Australia to 187/8.

Nathan Lyon and Peter Siddle added some runs late in the day, ensuring the team from Down Under goes past the 220-run mark. Both Lyon (25) and Siddle (18) were sent back to the pavilion by Archer. This enabled the pacer to take his wicket tally to six and bundle Australia out for 225.

Earlier in the day, England was bundled out for 294 in their first innings. Overnight batters Jos Buttler and Jack Leach were able to add just 23 runs more to the score.

Marsh went on to dismiss Leach (21) to take his fifth wicket in the innings. Jos Buttler was the top-scorer for England as he played a knock of 70 runs.&nbsp;
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Australia batsman Steve Smith who is having a remarkable Ashes, has broken the record of former Pakistan skipper Inzamam-ul-Haq of scoring most fifty-plus scores against a single team in Test cricket.

Australia batsman Steve Smith who is having a remarkable Ashes, has broken the record of former Pakistan skipper Inzamam-ul-Haq of scoring most fifty-plus scores against a single team in Test cricket. Smith broke the record on the second day of the fifth and final Ashes Test at the Oval as he scripted his sixth 50 plus score against England in the ongoing series. Inzamam had scored nine fifty-plus scores against England, whereas Smith now has 10. The 30-year-old Smith now has 751 runs in the series, as he played a knock of 80 runs in the fifth Test. However, he failed to score a century and was dismissed for his lowest knock in the series. Smith is currently the number one ranked batsman in the ICC Test batsmen rankings and he has a lead of 34 points over Indian skipper Virat Kohli. England ended day two of the final Test in a strong position after bundling out Australia for 225 in the first innings, gaining a lead of 69 runs here at the Oval. After bowling out the Aussies, England just had to face four overs and openers Rory Burns and Joe Denly ensured they do not lose a wicket and the side finished the day at 9/0, taking the lead to 78. In pursuit of England's first innings score, Australia once again got off to a bad start as the side lost its openers David Warner (5) and Marcus Harris (3) in quick succession as both batsmen were sent to the pavilion by Jofra Archer. Smith and Marnus Labuschagne retrieved the innings for Aussies as they put up a 69-run stand, but their resistance was cut short by Archer as he had Labuschagne (48) plum in front to reduce Australia to 83/3. The 30-year-old Smith (80) however kept on batting at one end, but he was finally dismissed for his lowest score of the series by Chris Woakes restricting Australia to 187/8. Nathan Lyon and Peter Siddle added some runs late in the day, ensuring the team from Down Under goes past the 220-run mark. Both Lyon (25) and Siddle (18) were sent back to the pavilion by Archer. This enabled the pacer to take his wicket tally to six and bundle Australia out for 225. Earlier in the day, England was bundled out for 294 in their first innings. Overnight batters Jos Buttler and Jack Leach were able to add just 23 runs more to the score. Marsh went on to dismiss Leach (21) to take his fifth wicket in the innings. Jos Buttler was the top-scorer for England as he played a knock of 70 runs.

Steve Smith continues his record-braking spree, goes past Inzamam-ul-Haq

Greg Chappell could not do it, while Ricky Ponting and Michael Clarke, who had both had two attempts each, were unable to manage it either.

But if his side avoid defeat in the fifth Test against England at The Oval starting Thursday, Tim Paine will join the list of Australia captains who have led the team to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-retain-ashes-with-185-run-win-over-england-in-fourth-test-248509">an Ashes series win in England</a>.

It is a feat no Australia captain has achieved since Steve Waugh oversaw a 4-1 success 18 years ago.

Waugh, like Chappell, Ponting and Clarke, is one of Australia's greatest cricketers.

No one, least of all wicketkeeper Paine himself, would suggest he is in that class and the way in which he inherited the captaincy was highly unusual.

Traditionally, Australia have picked their best 11 players first and then opted for one of them as captain, while in England, where there has long been an emphasis on 'leadership qualities', the tendency has been to select the skipper first and then find 10 others to join him.

Paine's case was different. Following the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town in March 2018 that saw <a href="wionews.com/sports/take-steve-smith-out-it-would-be-very-similar-for-both-teams-joe-root-248583">Steve Smith</a> stripped of the captaincy and David Warner removed from the post of vice-captain — with both batsmen subsequently given 12-month bans by Cricket Australia — officials needed someone uncontaminated by the incident to lead the team and turned to Paine the morning after 'Sandpapergate'.

Paine, who had made his Australia debut in a Test against Pakistan at Lord's in 2010, had been on the brink of retiring from cricket in 2017 and taking up a job with an equipment manufacturer instead.

But having forced his way back into the side, the Tasmanian found himself thrust into the captaincy barely a year later.

Ever since becoming skipper, Paine has face accusations that he is both an "accidental" skipper and not worth his place in the side.

But having shown dignity after a dramatic one-wicket loss in the third Test at Headingley, Paine had the satisfaction of leading the team to an 185-run win at Old Trafford on Sunday that ensured they retained the Ashes at 2-1 up with just one to play.

'Scary Smith'

Much of the credit will go to Smith, who has so far scored 671 runs at 134.20 with three hundreds, including 211 at Old Trafford, in his first series since his ban.

"He is just a genius and I never had any doubt he would come back and be the player he was," said Paine, who made his Test debut in the same match as Smith.

"The scary thing is he's getting better.&nbsp;I don't know where it is going to stop but we are enjoying being on the ride, that is for sure."

Just as Smith is the world's top-ranked Test batsman, Australia spearhead Pat Cummins is at the summit of the corresponding bowling rankings.

Most captains are only as good as their players, but Paine contributed to victory in Manchester by ending a run of low scores with a valuable first-innings 58.

"In terms of what we've been able to achieve as a group is pretty satisfying from where we've come from in the last 18 months," said Paine.

"Great character, shows the great people we have got and shows we've also got some bloody good cricketers in our team.

"Also from where we've come from, even from last week (the defeat at Headingley). That was a loss that would break a lot of teams but we weren't."

As for personal satisfaction, the 34-year-old Paine added: "My dream was to come here and win an Ashes. I certainly didn't want to be the captain winning the Ashes.

"I am just happy to be a part of it. I could have been working at Kookaburra so this isn't bad."

Greg Chappell could not do it, while Ricky Ponting and Michael Clarke, who had both had two attempts each, were unable to manage it either. But if his side avoid defeat in the fifth Test against England at The Oval starting Thursday, Tim Paine will join the list of Australia captains who have led the team to an Ashes series win in England.

Greg Chappell could not do it, while Ricky Ponting and Michael Clarke, who had both had two attempts each, were unable to manage it either. But if his side avoid defeat in the fifth Test against England at The Oval starting Thursday, Tim Paine will join the list of Australia captains who have led the team to an Ashes series win in England. It is a feat no Australia captain has achieved since Steve Waugh oversaw a 4-1 success 18 years ago. Waugh, like Chappell, Ponting and Clarke, is one of Australia's greatest cricketers. No one, least of all wicketkeeper Paine himself, would suggest he is in that class and the way in which he inherited the captaincy was highly unusual. Traditionally, Australia have picked their best 11 players first and then opted for one of them as captain, while in England, where there has long been an emphasis on 'leadership qualities', the tendency has been to select the skipper first and then find 10 others to join him. Paine's case was different. Following the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town in March 2018 that saw Steve Smith stripped of the captaincy and David Warner removed from the post of vice-captain — with both batsmen subsequently given 12-month bans by Cricket Australia — officials needed someone uncontaminated by the incident to lead the team and turned to Paine the morning after 'Sandpapergate'. Paine, who had made his Australia debut in a Test against Pakistan at Lord's in 2010, had been on the brink of retiring from cricket in 2017 and taking up a job with an equipment manufacturer instead. But having forced his way back into the side, the Tasmanian found himself thrust into the captaincy barely a year later. Ever since becoming skipper, Paine has face accusations that he is both an "accidental" skipper and not worth his place in the side. But having shown dignity after a dramatic one-wicket loss in the third Test at Headingley, Paine had the satisfaction of leading the team to an 185-run win at Old Trafford on Sunday that ensured they retained the Ashes at 2-1 up with just one to play. 'Scary Smith' Much of the credit will go to Smith, who has so far scored 671 runs at 134.20 with three hundreds, including 211 at Old Trafford, in his first series since his ban. "He is just a genius and I never had any doubt he would come back and be the player he was," said Paine, who made his Test debut in the same match as Smith. "The scary thing is he's getting better. I don't know where it is going to stop but we are enjoying being on the ride, that is for sure." Just as Smith is the world's top-ranked Test batsman, Australia spearhead Pat Cummins is at the summit of the corresponding bowling rankings. Most captains are only as good as their players, but Paine contributed to victory in Manchester by ending a run of low scores with a valuable first-innings 58. "In terms of what we've been able to achieve as a group is pretty satisfying from where we've come from in the last 18 months," said Paine. "Great character, shows the great people we have got and shows we've also got some bloody good cricketers in our team. "Also from where we've come from, even from last week (the defeat at Headingley). That was a loss that would break a lot of teams but we weren't." As for personal satisfaction, the 34-year-old Paine added: "My dream was to come here and win an Ashes. I certainly didn't want to be the captain winning the Ashes. "I am just happy to be a part of it. I could have been working at Kookaburra so this isn't bad."

'Accidental' Australia captain Tim Paine on verge of Ashes landmark

Australian batsman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-and-david-warner-share-celebratory-moments-after-retaining-ashes-248646">Steve Smith</a> has extended his lead over India skipper Virat Kohli at the number one spot in the ICC Test batsmen rankings.

Smith now has a lead of 34 points over Kohli as the rankings were revealed on Tuesday.

The 30-year-old batsmen scored 293 (211+82) runs in the fourth Test and as a result, he has further consolidated his position.

With this, he is virtually assured of the top spot after the end of the five-match series between Australia and England.

Aussie pacer Pat Cummins also remains at the top spot in the bowler rankings. The bowler took seven wickets in the recently concluded match and as a result, he has 63-rating points ahead of the second-placed Proteas bowler Kagiso Rabada.

India's Jasprit Bumrah is positioned at the third place. Josh Hazlewood has also entered the top ten for the first time in his career. He has moved to eighth place.

Afghanistan's 224-run win over Bangladesh in Chattogram has also resulted in major gains for their players.

Afghan skipper Rashid Khan's player of the match effort of 11 for 104 has lifted him from 69th to 37th position in the bowling rankings.

Former Afghan captain Asghar Afghan's scores of 92 and 50 have taken him from 110th to 63rd position while Rahmat Shah's century in the first innings has helped him move from 93rd to 65th.&nbsp;

Australian batsman Steve Smith has extended his lead over India skipper Virat Kohli at the number one spot in the ICC Test batsmen rankings. Smith now has a lead of 34 points over Kohli as the rankings were revealed on Tuesday.

Australian batsman Steve Smith has extended his lead over India skipper Virat Kohli at the number one spot in the ICC Test batsmen rankings. Smith now has a lead of 34 points over Kohli as the rankings were revealed on Tuesday. The 30-year-old batsmen scored 293 (211+82) runs in the fourth Test and as a result, he has further consolidated his position. With this, he is virtually assured of the top spot after the end of the five-match series between Australia and England. Aussie pacer Pat Cummins also remains at the top spot in the bowler rankings. The bowler took seven wickets in the recently concluded match and as a result, he has 63-rating points ahead of the second-placed Proteas bowler Kagiso Rabada. India's Jasprit Bumrah is positioned at the third place. Josh Hazlewood has also entered the top ten for the first time in his career. He has moved to eighth place. Afghanistan's 224-run win over Bangladesh in Chattogram has also resulted in major gains for their players. Afghan skipper Rashid Khan's player of the match effort of 11 for 104 has lifted him from 69th to 37th position in the bowling rankings. Former Afghan captain Asghar Afghan's scores of 92 and 50 have taken him from 110th to 63rd position while Rahmat Shah's century in the first innings has helped him move from 93rd to 65th.

ICC rankings: Steve Smith extends his lead over Virat Kohli at number one position

After winning the fourth Test match against England and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-retain-ashes-with-185-run-win-over-england-in-fourth-test-248509">retaining the Ashes</a>, Australia batsmen <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/take-steve-smith-out-it-would-be-very-similar-for-both-teams-joe-root-248583">Steve Smith</a> and David Warner shared their team's celebratory moments with the fans.

Australia defeated England by 185 runs in the fourth Test. Steve Smith has been in a phenomenal form in the Ashes series and after missing the third Ashes Test match due to concussion, Smith made a scintillating return.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heres-how-australian-police-mock-england-after-aussies-retain-ashes-urn-248626">Australian police mock England cricket team after Aussies retain Ashes urn</a>

Smith scored 211 runs in the first inning and 82 in the second helping his side win the match. Moreover, Smith has amassed 671 runs and has become the second-fastest batsman to register 26 Test centuries.

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B2L6baFpjkX/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Ashes! 👋👌🙏</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/steve_smith49/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Steve Smith</a> (@steve_smith49) on <time datetime="2019-09-09T09:53:44+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Sep 9, 2019 at 2:53am PDT</time>
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However, Warner failed utterly in the fourth Ashes Test match as he was dismissed on a duck in both the innings.

Australia are now on a 2-1 lead in the series with one match left to play.

Australia and England will face each other in the final Test, beginning September 12 at the Oval.

After winning the fourth Test match against England and retaining the Ashes, Australia batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner shared their team's celebratory moments with the fans.

After winning the fourth Test match against England and retaining the Ashes, Australia batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner shared their team's celebratory moments with the fans. Australia defeated England by 185 runs in the fourth Test. Steve Smith has been in a phenomenal form in the Ashes series and after missing the third Ashes Test match due to concussion, Smith made a scintillating return. Also Read: Australian police mock England cricket team after Aussies retain Ashes urn Smith scored 211 runs in the first inning and 82 in the second helping his side win the match. Moreover, Smith has amassed 671 runs and has become the second-fastest batsman to register 26 Test centuries. View this post on Instagram Ashes! 👋👌🙏 A post shared by Steve Smith (@steve_smith49) on Sep 9, 2019 at 2:53am PDT × View this post on Instagram #Ashes #retained A post shared by David Warner (@davidwarner31) on Sep 9, 2019 at 3:53am PDT × However, Warner failed utterly in the fourth Ashes Test match as he was dismissed on a duck in both the innings. Australia are now on a 2-1 lead in the series with one match left to play. Australia and England will face each other in the final Test, beginning September 12 at the Oval.

Steve Smith and David Warner share celebratory moments after retaining Ashes

England skipper Joe Root identified Australia batsman Steve Smith as the standout performer in the ongoing Ashes and said if the batsman is taken out of the equation, the situation would be very similar for both teams.

His remarks came after the end of the fourth Test, which England lost by 185 runs, enabling <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-retain-ashes-with-185-run-win-over-england-in-fourth-test-248509">Australia to retain the Ashes</a>.

Tim Paine has become the first Aussie captain to retain the Ashes in England since Steve Waugh in 2001.

"If you take Steve Smith out, it would be very similar for both teams. It has been a series dominated by the ball. Both batting sides have very experienced players who have not performed how they would have liked and that tells a story by itself," ESPN Cricinfo quoted Root as saying.

"Bowling at Smith in this form is difficult and you have to make sure you take all your chances. We did not do that and that cost us. The teams have put all batters - bar Smith - under pressure and it has been challenging. But I have to find a way of scoring runs. You have to look at areas you want to get better both in yourself and as a team," he added.

Thirty-year-old Smith, who scored 82 runs in the second innings of the fourth Test of the ongoing Ashes on Saturday, has been having an exceptional series. He has amassed 671 runs and has become the second-fastest batsman to register 26 Test centuries.

In the first innings of the match, he scored a double ton, enabling Australia to post 497 on the board.

The team then bundled out England for 301 to gain a lead of 196 runs.

In the second innings, Australia was in a spot of bother at 44/4, but Smith played a vital 82-run knock to enable the side to declare at 186/6, setting England a target of 383 runs.

In the final innings, England's wickets kept on falling at regular intervals but Australia had to toil hard to take the final two wickets.

Australia had to toil hard for taking the last two wickets of England and skipper Root lauded his team for the fight they put up on the final day of the match.

"I thought the guys fought extremely bravely. They dug in, they fought and they put a high price on their wicket. It almost makes it a little bit harder to take but, at the same time, I could not be more proud with how we fought today," Root said.

"It is tough to take, losing the Ashes. It is bitterly disappointing. But when you find yourself in a situation like today you learn a lot about your team and the guys. I thought everyone showed a lot of courage, resilience, and character. Everyone should be really proud about how they approached the day," he added.

Despite the loss in the Test, Root said he still wants to continue as the skipper."I definitely want to carry on as captain. I have been given a fantastic opportunity to captain the Test side and will continue to work very hard at doing my best at that," Root said.

Currently, Australia has a 2-1 lead in the series with one match left to play.

England and Australia next face each other in the final Test, beginning September 12 at the Oval.

England skipper Joe Root identified Australia batsman Steve Smith as the standout performer in the ongoing Ashes and said if the batsman is taken out of the equation, the situation would be very similar for both teams.

England skipper Joe Root identified Australia batsman Steve Smith as the standout performer in the ongoing Ashes and said if the batsman is taken out of the equation, the situation would be very similar for both teams. His remarks came after the end of the fourth Test, which England lost by 185 runs, enabling Australia to retain the Ashes. Tim Paine has become the first Aussie captain to retain the Ashes in England since Steve Waugh in 2001. "If you take Steve Smith out, it would be very similar for both teams. It has been a series dominated by the ball. Both batting sides have very experienced players who have not performed how they would have liked and that tells a story by itself," ESPN Cricinfo quoted Root as saying. "Bowling at Smith in this form is difficult and you have to make sure you take all your chances. We did not do that and that cost us. The teams have put all batters - bar Smith - under pressure and it has been challenging. But I have to find a way of scoring runs. You have to look at areas you want to get better both in yourself and as a team," he added. Thirty-year-old Smith, who scored 82 runs in the second innings of the fourth Test of the ongoing Ashes on Saturday, has been having an exceptional series. He has amassed 671 runs and has become the second-fastest batsman to register 26 Test centuries. In the first innings of the match, he scored a double ton, enabling Australia to post 497 on the board. The team then bundled out England for 301 to gain a lead of 196 runs. In the second innings, Australia was in a spot of bother at 44/4, but Smith played a vital 82-run knock to enable the side to declare at 186/6, setting England a target of 383 runs. In the final innings, England's wickets kept on falling at regular intervals but Australia had to toil hard to take the final two wickets. Australia had to toil hard for taking the last two wickets of England and skipper Root lauded his team for the fight they put up on the final day of the match. "I thought the guys fought extremely bravely. They dug in, they fought and they put a high price on their wicket. It almost makes it a little bit harder to take but, at the same time, I could not be more proud with how we fought today," Root said. "It is tough to take, losing the Ashes. It is bitterly disappointing. But when you find yourself in a situation like today you learn a lot about your team and the guys. I thought everyone showed a lot of courage, resilience, and character. Everyone should be really proud about how they approached the day," he added. Despite the loss in the Test, Root said he still wants to continue as the skipper."I definitely want to carry on as captain. I have been given a fantastic opportunity to captain the Test side and will continue to work very hard at doing my best at that," Root said. Currently, Australia has a 2-1 lead in the series with one match left to play. England and Australia next face each other in the final Test, beginning September 12 at the Oval.

Take Steve Smith out, it would be very similar for both teams: Joe Root

Former Test skipper Allan Border says that if Australia take the last eight English wickets on the final day of the fourth Ashes Test on Sunday and retain the coveted urn, the credit can go only to one man -- Steve Smith.

Smith has returned from his one-year ban for the Newlands ball-tampering scandal in quite sensational form and hit his ninth consecutive Ashes half century with a knock of 82 on Saturday.

That took his tally to 671 runs at an average of 134 over the series, a haul all the more remarkable given he missed the third test after being struck on the head by a Jofra Archer bouncer.

It will be down to Australia's bowlers to ensure England, who will resume on 18-2 needing another 365 to win, do not produce another miracle recovery on Sunday to go with the one Ben Stokes conjured up in the third Test at Headingley.

But even if Pat Cummins and co do achieve their task, Border thinks the entire team will need to doff their baggy Green Caps to former captain Smith.

"He's been quite phenomenal and if Australia go on to win this game and retain the Ashes, it's basically been on the back of Smith's bat," Border told Fox Sports TV.

"He's been phenomenal throughout the series and again yesterday, Australia in trouble as usual, top of the order struggling again.

"He just steadies the ship, and then that remarkable knock and gets them into position to declare and take those two late wickets which puts Australia right in the box seat going into day five."

While Smith has thrived in a series pushed back into the autumn to accommodate the World Cup, his fellow top order batsmen, with the exception of Marnus Labuschagne, have endured a torrid time in the face of the hostile English bowling.

"He's just a different class, it's as simple as that, he looks like he's playing in different conditions," Border added.

"The bowling looks less threatening when he's at the crease. All the other batsmen have really struggled.

"There's been some good bowling and the pitches have helped the bowlers a fair bit throughout the series ... but when Steve Smith's facing up, it's a different ballgame.

"He's just been the difference between the two teams to date."

If England manage to force a draw at Old Trafford, the series, currently tied at 1-1, will go down to the final Test with Australian just needing to avoid defeat at The Oval to retain the Ashes.

Border, who scored 3,548 runs from 47 Tests against England at an average of 56.31, was confident Australia would wrap it up in Manchester but felt changes would be needed if they fell short.

"I think we hold all the aces but if it's draw, they will have to look at that top order," Border said.

"They're just missing straight balls and they can't keep relying on Steve Smith to get them out of trouble, he's going to miss out eventually."

Former Test skipper Allan Border says that if Australia take the last eight English wickets on the final day of the fourth Ashes Test on Sunday and retain the coveted urn, the credit can go only to one man -- Steve Smith.

Former Test skipper Allan Border says that if Australia take the last eight English wickets on the final day of the fourth Ashes Test on Sunday and retain the coveted urn, the credit can go only to one man -- Steve Smith. Smith has returned from his one-year ban for the Newlands ball-tampering scandal in quite sensational form and hit his ninth consecutive Ashes half century with a knock of 82 on Saturday. That took his tally to 671 runs at an average of 134 over the series, a haul all the more remarkable given he missed the third test after being struck on the head by a Jofra Archer bouncer. It will be down to Australia's bowlers to ensure England, who will resume on 18-2 needing another 365 to win, do not produce another miracle recovery on Sunday to go with the one Ben Stokes conjured up in the third Test at Headingley. But even if Pat Cummins and co do achieve their task, Border thinks the entire team will need to doff their baggy Green Caps to former captain Smith. "He's been quite phenomenal and if Australia go on to win this game and retain the Ashes, it's basically been on the back of Smith's bat," Border told Fox Sports TV. "He's been phenomenal throughout the series and again yesterday, Australia in trouble as usual, top of the order struggling again. "He just steadies the ship, and then that remarkable knock and gets them into position to declare and take those two late wickets which puts Australia right in the box seat going into day five." While Smith has thrived in a series pushed back into the autumn to accommodate the World Cup, his fellow top order batsmen, with the exception of Marnus Labuschagne, have endured a torrid time in the face of the hostile English bowling. "He's just a different class, it's as simple as that, he looks like he's playing in different conditions," Border added. "The bowling looks less threatening when he's at the crease. All the other batsmen have really struggled. "There's been some good bowling and the pitches have helped the bowlers a fair bit throughout the series ... but when Steve Smith's facing up, it's a different ballgame. "He's just been the difference between the two teams to date." If England manage to force a draw at Old Trafford, the series, currently tied at 1-1, will go down to the final Test with Australian just needing to avoid defeat at The Oval to retain the Ashes. Border, who scored 3,548 runs from 47 Tests against England at an average of 56.31, was confident Australia would wrap it up in Manchester but felt changes would be needed if they fell short. "I think we hold all the aces but if it's draw, they will have to look at that top order," Border said. "They're just missing straight balls and they can't keep relying on Steve Smith to get them out of trouble, he's going to miss out eventually."

It'll be Steve Smith's Ashes if Australia prevail, says Allan Border

The Steve Smith double century at Old Trafford that continued his brilliant Ashes campaign has generated wonder Down Under, with Australia media branding him a modern-day Don Bradman on Friday.

The Depression-era Bradman's batting average of 99.94 invites no comparison but Smith's feats in England mark him out as the next most effective tormenter of the nation's bowlers.

Back at the crease after missing the third Test through concussion, his 211 propelled him to 589 runs for the series at an average of 147.25, leaving England's Headingley saviour Ben Stokes (327 at 81.75) well behind in second place.

Smith's three double centuries against England is second only to Bradman's record five, while his 11th Ashes ton moved him past Steve Waugh's 10 into outright third overall.

Only Bradman (19) and England's Jack Hobbs (12) have more Ashes hundreds.

"Books detail Bradman's greatness, sepia-toned newsreels of his deeds fill a museum that bears his name," Russell Gould wrote glowingly in Melbourne's Herald Sun newspaper.

"There was even a song written about him.

"'Our Steve Smith' is more likely to be a trending hashtag.

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Steve Smith's dominance over England's bowlers continued on day two at Old Trafford. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> REPORT ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/5MWgb7rg1D">https://t.co/5MWgb7rg1D</a>
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"But however it's captured, this era, this display of sheer cricketing dominance will live well beyond this time, and this team."

Smith has now five centuries from his last six tests against England and averages 65.37 in the Ashes, also second only to Bradman among Australian cricketers.

His day two exploits pushed Australia to a mammoth 497 for eight declared, with England 23 for one at the close of day two on Thursday, and under huge pressure to keep the series alive.

Bradman's lofty record of 5,028 Ashes runs has remained the benchmark for 70 years and 30-year-old Smith (2,615) may struggle to mow it down, even if his formidable gifts and hunger remain undimmed for years.

But the former captain is well on the way to being regarded as one of the all-time greats, according to former Australia players.

"He could be anything. We might be seeing history in the making here," former Test batsman Mike Hussey said on ESPNcricinfo.

"We think no-one can beat Bradman. I don't think he's going to even beat Bradman. But he maybe is pushing the bar higher and higher."

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting described Smith as a "genius" and seemingly impervious to any bowler's plans.

"To think how good Bradman must have been -- to be a third again better than what Steve Smith's doing at the moment -- is ridiculous," Ponting told Cricket Australia's website (cricket.com.au).

"(Smith's) got four, five, six years of good cricket ahead of him, which if you add it up, that's probably another 80, 90 test matches.

"Then he's played 150 games and could have all sorts of numbers and records by then and let's hope he does, because the way he's going about it now, the way he's playing, he deserves to get the rewards from that."

The Steve Smith double century at Old Trafford that continued his brilliant Ashes campaign has generated wonder Down Under, with Australia media branding him a modern-day Don Bradman on Friday.

The Steve Smith double century at Old Trafford that continued his brilliant Ashes campaign has generated wonder Down Under, with Australia media branding him a modern-day Don Bradman on Friday. The Depression-era Bradman's batting average of 99.94 invites no comparison but Smith's feats in England mark him out as the next most effective tormenter of the nation's bowlers. Back at the crease after missing the third Test through concussion, his 211 propelled him to 589 runs for the series at an average of 147.25, leaving England's Headingley saviour Ben Stokes (327 at 81.75) well behind in second place. Smith's three double centuries against England is second only to Bradman's record five, while his 11th Ashes ton moved him past Steve Waugh's 10 into outright third overall. Only Bradman (19) and England's Jack Hobbs (12) have more Ashes hundreds. "Books detail Bradman's greatness, sepia-toned newsreels of his deeds fill a museum that bears his name," Russell Gould wrote glowingly in Melbourne's Herald Sun newspaper. "There was even a song written about him. "'Our Steve Smith' is more likely to be a trending hashtag. Steve Smith's dominance over England's bowlers continued on day two at Old Trafford. #Ashes REPORT ⬇️ https://t.co/5MWgb7rg1D — ICC (@ICC) September 6, 2019 × "But however it's captured, this era, this display of sheer cricketing dominance will live well beyond this time, and this team." Smith has now five centuries from his last six tests against England and averages 65.37 in the Ashes, also second only to Bradman among Australian cricketers. His day two exploits pushed Australia to a mammoth 497 for eight declared, with England 23 for one at the close of day two on Thursday, and under huge pressure to keep the series alive. Bradman's lofty record of 5,028 Ashes runs has remained the benchmark for 70 years and 30-year-old Smith (2,615) may struggle to mow it down, even if his formidable gifts and hunger remain undimmed for years. But the former captain is well on the way to being regarded as one of the all-time greats, according to former Australia players. "He could be anything. We might be seeing history in the making here," former Test batsman Mike Hussey said on ESPNcricinfo. "We think no-one can beat Bradman. I don't think he's going to even beat Bradman. But he maybe is pushing the bar higher and higher." Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting described Smith as a "genius" and seemingly impervious to any bowler's plans. "To think how good Bradman must have been -- to be a third again better than what Steve Smith's doing at the moment -- is ridiculous," Ponting told Cricket Australia's website (cricket.com.au). "(Smith's) got four, five, six years of good cricket ahead of him, which if you add it up, that's probably another 80, 90 test matches. "Then he's played 150 games and could have all sorts of numbers and records by then and let's hope he does, because the way he's going about it now, the way he's playing, he deserves to get the rewards from that."

Ashes 2019: Australia hail Steve Smith as Bradman incarnate

The oldest cricketing rivalry between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2019-australia-hail-steve-smith-as-bradman-incarnate-247942">England and Australia</a> has a fan following like no other and to showcase his love for the team from Down Under, a 12-year-old boy, Max Waight, saved four years of 'hard-earned' pocket money to watch the ongoing series in England.

"I sat next to Steve Waugh, Justin Langer, and Nathan Lyon. Justin Langer showed me the plan book which was amazing to see all his notes and talking to Steve Waugh was amazing too," cricket.com.au quoted Max as saying.

"Steve Smith and Pat Cummins are my favourites. I got to talk to them about how they prepare and play the game. It was very enjoyable," he added.

The kid had seen Australia lift the World Cup in 2015 on their home soil and it was then that he wanted to travel to the UK to watch his favourite team take on England in the high-voltage series.

But travelling to England was not that simple. His father, Damien, promised him that if he could raise AUD 1500, he would end up taking Max to the UK.

Raising AUD 1500 was not easy for the kid, but he and his mother came up with a plan of taking out the neighbours` rubbish bins on the weekends for the charge of just AUD 1 per household.

The kid then wrote a letter to all his neighbours, offering his waste management services and he attracted customers in no time.

The whole process went on for four years and he kept on taking the bins out on weekends. He took breaks when he was unable to take out the garbage bins or was ill.

When he was unable to do so, his parents and younger brother did the job to keep the process going.

And at last, when the kid accumulated the required money, his father kept the promise and booked the tickets for the entire family to go to England to watch the ongoing fourth Ashes Test in Manchester.

"When I said it, I had to follow through. If he saved up the money I was not going to let him down," cricket.com.au quoted Damien as saying.

"You do not fast forward in your mind at the start and think you are going to do it but it is good that we are here. It is an amazing experience, we have got our whole family and another close family that we are friends with. We are just making memories," he added.

Max and his brother travelled to Old Trafford on the team bus and Max was seen sitting next to Australia coach Justin Langer.

In the ongoing fourth Test of the ongoing Ashes, Australia declared their first innings at 494/8 after Steve Smith`s double ton.

England was reduced to 23/1 at the close of play on day two of the Test.

The oldest cricketing rivalry between England and Australia has a fan following like no other and to showcase his love for the team from Down Under, a 12-year-old boy, Max Waight, saved four years of 'hard-earned' pocket money to watch the ongoing series in England.

The oldest cricketing rivalry between England and Australia has a fan following like no other and to showcase his love for the team from Down Under, a 12-year-old boy, Max Waight, saved four years of 'hard-earned' pocket money to watch the ongoing series in England. "I sat next to Steve Waugh, Justin Langer, and Nathan Lyon. Justin Langer showed me the plan book which was amazing to see all his notes and talking to Steve Waugh was amazing too," cricket.com.au quoted Max as saying. "Steve Smith and Pat Cummins are my favourites. I got to talk to them about how they prepare and play the game. It was very enjoyable," he added. The kid had seen Australia lift the World Cup in 2015 on their home soil and it was then that he wanted to travel to the UK to watch his favourite team take on England in the high-voltage series. But travelling to England was not that simple. His father, Damien, promised him that if he could raise AUD 1500, he would end up taking Max to the UK. Raising AUD 1500 was not easy for the kid, but he and his mother came up with a plan of taking out the neighbours` rubbish bins on the weekends for the charge of just AUD 1 per household. The kid then wrote a letter to all his neighbours, offering his waste management services and he attracted customers in no time. The whole process went on for four years and he kept on taking the bins out on weekends. He took breaks when he was unable to take out the garbage bins or was ill. When he was unable to do so, his parents and younger brother did the job to keep the process going. And at last, when the kid accumulated the required money, his father kept the promise and booked the tickets for the entire family to go to England to watch the ongoing fourth Ashes Test in Manchester. "When I said it, I had to follow through. If he saved up the money I was not going to let him down," cricket.com.au quoted Damien as saying. "You do not fast forward in your mind at the start and think you are going to do it but it is good that we are here. It is an amazing experience, we have got our whole family and another close family that we are friends with. We are just making memories," he added. Max and his brother travelled to Old Trafford on the team bus and Max was seen sitting next to Australia coach Justin Langer. In the ongoing fourth Test of the ongoing Ashes, Australia declared their first innings at 494/8 after Steve Smith`s double ton. England was reduced to 23/1 at the close of play on day two of the Test.

Meet Max Waight, who picked waste to fulfill dream of watching Ashes

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