Australian cricketer Steve Smith surpassed New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson to move to the number two spot in the latest ICC Test batsmen's rankings which was released on Monday.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli has retained his top spot with a margin of nine points from the second spot.&nbsp;

Smith has so far scored 378 runs in the ongoing Ashes series between England and Australia. But Kohli will get a chance to better his lead as India gear up to face West Indies in the two-match series.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes bettered his ranking by six places to achieve the 26th position while wicketkeeper-batsman Jonny Bairstow moved seven places to take the 30th spot.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne, who played a match-winning knock of 122 against New Zealand at Galle, climbed four places to the 8th position.&nbsp;

England bowlers Stuart Broad and Chris Woakes gained two places in the bowler's list, and are currently positioned at the 14th and 27th spots respectively.&nbsp;

Pacer Jofra Archer also entered the rankings and was placed in 83rd position after ending up with five wickets in his debut Test.&nbsp;

In the bowlers' rankings, Australia's Pat Cummins retained the top spot.&nbsp;

In terms of team rankings, India are at the pole position, but they can lose their spot if the side loses 0-1 against the Windies.

Australian cricketer Steve Smith surpassed New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson to move to the number two spot in the latest ICC Test batsmen's rankings which was released on Monday.

Australian cricketer Steve Smith surpassed New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson to move to the number two spot in the latest ICC Test batsmen's rankings which was released on Monday. Indian skipper Virat Kohli has retained his top spot with a margin of nine points from the second spot. Smith has so far scored 378 runs in the ongoing Ashes series between England and Australia. But Kohli will get a chance to better his lead as India gear up to face West Indies in the two-match series. England all-rounder Ben Stokes bettered his ranking by six places to achieve the 26th position while wicketkeeper-batsman Jonny Bairstow moved seven places to take the 30th spot. Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne, who played a match-winning knock of 122 against New Zealand at Galle, climbed four places to the 8th position. England bowlers Stuart Broad and Chris Woakes gained two places in the bowler's list, and are currently positioned at the 14th and 27th spots respectively. Pacer Jofra Archer also entered the rankings and was placed in 83rd position after ending up with five wickets in his debut Test. In the bowlers' rankings, Australia's Pat Cummins retained the top spot. In terms of team rankings, India are at the pole position, but they can lose their spot if the side loses 0-1 against the Windies.

ICC Test rankings: Virat Kohli retains top spot, Steve Smith moves to second position

Australia's Steve Smith has been ruled out of the last day of the second Ashes Test against England at Lord's on Sunday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-cricket-union-condemns-boos-after-steve-smith-felled-by-jofra-archer-243836">with concussion</a>, Cricket Australia (CA) have announced.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-steve-smith-retires-hurt-after-being-hit-by-jofra-archer-bouncer-243695">Smith was hit by a Jofra Archer bouncer</a> on Saturday and although he resumed his innings after retiring hurt, further tests saw CA deem him unfit to play on Sunday with his participation in the third Test, which starts on Thursday, also in doubt.

"Steve has been closely monitored by medical staff overnight and this morning reported that after sleeping well, he woke with 'a bit of a headache and a feeling of grogginess'," said am Australian team spokesman.

The series is the first being played under the International Cricket's new concussion substitute regulations, part of the inaugural World Test Championship, which allow players who have suffered head or neck injuries to be replaced fully by a substitute, who was previously restricted to fielding alone.

Marnus Labuschagne, on the field as 12th man when play resumed Sunday, became the first concussion substitute in Test history after Australia's request was approved by match referee Ranjan Madugalle.

Labuschagne can now bat or bowl in Smith's place if required, unlike traditional substitutes who were restricted to fielding.

There are doubts whether star batsman Smith will feature in the third Test at Headingley starting on Thursday. The spokesman saying "the short turnaround is not in his favour".

Smith was hit by an Archer bouncer when on 80 on Saturday and retired hurt.

He resumed his innings at the fall of the next wicket after 46 minutes off the field, and was eventually out for 92 -- the first time this series he had been dismissed for fewer than 100 runs.

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Steve Smith has been subbed out of day five and appears in doubt for the third <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Test?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Test</a>. 
 
Marnus Labuschagne will replace Smith as the concussion sub under the new Test playing conditions. Developing story from <a href="https://twitter.com/samuelfez?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@samuelfez</a> here <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/FAgDoowHbr">https://t.co/FAgDoowHbr</a>
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'Grogginess'

The spokesman added: "Steve reported that his left arm which was also struck (by Archer) during his innings yesterday was 'much better'.

The spokesman added that as part of further testing on Sunday, Smith "demonstrated some deterioration" from his testing which was consistent with the emergence of the symptoms he was reporting.&nbsp;

"On that basis Steve has been withdrawn from the match by team doctor Richard Saw," the spokesman said.

Explaining how Smith had been allowed to resume his innings, the spokesman said: "It is not uncommon for players to pass their tests and feel well on the day of an injury and then display symptoms 24-48 hours later.

"Steve's fitness will be assessed on an ongoing basis.

"Steve will undergo a precautionary scan on his neck on Sunday."

Australia, bidding for their first Ashes campaign triumph on English soil in 18 years, lead the five-match series 1-0 after a 251-run win at Edgbaston last week.

In that match, former captain Smith marked his first Test since completing a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa with superb innings of 144 and 142.

After rain delayed Sunday's start by over an hour, England resumed on 96-4 in their second innings, a lead of 104 runs.

Australia's Steve Smith has been ruled out of the last day of the second Ashes Test against England at Lord's on Sunday with concussion, Cricket Australia (CA) have announced.

Australia's Steve Smith has been ruled out of the last day of the second Ashes Test against England at Lord's on Sunday with concussion, Cricket Australia (CA) have announced. Smith was hit by a Jofra Archer bouncer on Saturday and although he resumed his innings after retiring hurt, further tests saw CA deem him unfit to play on Sunday with his participation in the third Test, which starts on Thursday, also in doubt. "Steve has been closely monitored by medical staff overnight and this morning reported that after sleeping well, he woke with 'a bit of a headache and a feeling of grogginess'," said am Australian team spokesman. The series is the first being played under the International Cricket's new concussion substitute regulations, part of the inaugural World Test Championship, which allow players who have suffered head or neck injuries to be replaced fully by a substitute, who was previously restricted to fielding alone. Marnus Labuschagne, on the field as 12th man when play resumed Sunday, became the first concussion substitute in Test history after Australia's request was approved by match referee Ranjan Madugalle. Labuschagne can now bat or bowl in Smith's place if required, unlike traditional substitutes who were restricted to fielding. There are doubts whether star batsman Smith will feature in the third Test at Headingley starting on Thursday. The spokesman saying "the short turnaround is not in his favour". Smith was hit by an Archer bouncer when on 80 on Saturday and retired hurt. He resumed his innings at the fall of the next wicket after 46 minutes off the field, and was eventually out for 92 -- the first time this series he had been dismissed for fewer than 100 runs. Steve Smith has been subbed out of day five and appears in doubt for the third #Test. Marnus Labuschagne will replace Smith as the concussion sub under the new Test playing conditions. Developing story from @samuelfez here #Ashes https://t.co/FAgDoowHbr — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) August 18, 2019 × 'Grogginess' The spokesman added: "Steve reported that his left arm which was also struck (by Archer) during his innings yesterday was 'much better'. The spokesman added that as part of further testing on Sunday, Smith "demonstrated some deterioration" from his testing which was consistent with the emergence of the symptoms he was reporting. "On that basis Steve has been withdrawn from the match by team doctor Richard Saw," the spokesman said. Explaining how Smith had been allowed to resume his innings, the spokesman said: "It is not uncommon for players to pass their tests and feel well on the day of an injury and then display symptoms 24-48 hours later. "Steve's fitness will be assessed on an ongoing basis. "Steve will undergo a precautionary scan on his neck on Sunday." Australia, bidding for their first Ashes campaign triumph on English soil in 18 years, lead the five-match series 1-0 after a 251-run win at Edgbaston last week. In that match, former captain Smith marked his first Test since completing a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa with superb innings of 144 and 142. After rain delayed Sunday's start by over an hour, England resumed on 96-4 in their second innings, a lead of 104 runs.

Ashes 2019: Australia's Steve Smith out of second Test with concussion

Former Pakistan bowler Shoaib Akhtar criticised England pacer Jofra Archer for not checking up on Australian batsman Steve Smith after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-steve-smith-retires-hurt-after-being-hit-by-jofra-archer-bouncer-243695">striking him on the neck by a bouncer</a>.&nbsp;

"Bouncers are a part &amp; parcel of the game but whenever a bowler hits a batsman on the head and he falls, courtesy requires that the bowler must go &amp; check on him. It was not nice of Archer to just walk away while Smith was in pain. I was always the first one to run to the batsman," Akhtar tweeted on Sunday.&nbsp;

Smith had to deal with two blows on day four of the second Test match at Lord's Cricket Ground. Firstly he was struck on the elbow by Archer and soon after he received a striking blow on the neck by a bouncer bowled by the pacer and he immediately went down.&nbsp;

Physios from both England and Australia attended Smith, but the batsman had to leave the park in order to have a concussion test. A little while later, the batsman made his way back to the crease, but a section of England crowd was seen booing the player.

Smith went on to play a knock of 92 runs against England in the first innings of the second Test match.

The right-handed batsman has been in a rich vein of form as he struck centuries in both innings of the first Test match. He became only the fifth Australian to score centuries in both innings of Ashes Test.

He also surpassed Indian skipper Virat Kohli to become the second-fastest batsman to register 25 Test centuries.

Ever since, Australia landed in Australia to play the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup and Ashes, Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft have been subjected to boos from the England crowd.

The trio was involved in a ball-tampering scandal against South Africa in 2018 and this resulted in the players getting suspended for one year.

In the ongoing second Test of the Ashes, England will resume day five at 96/4 with a lead of 104 in the second innings.

Former Pakistan bowler Shoaib Akhtar criticised England pacer Jofra Archer for not checking up on Australian batsman Steve Smith after striking him on the neck by a bouncer.

Former Pakistan bowler Shoaib Akhtar criticised England pacer Jofra Archer for not checking up on Australian batsman Steve Smith after striking him on the neck by a bouncer. "Bouncers are a part & parcel of the game but whenever a bowler hits a batsman on the head and he falls, courtesy requires that the bowler must go & check on him. It was not nice of Archer to just walk away while Smith was in pain. I was always the first one to run to the batsman," Akhtar tweeted on Sunday. Smith had to deal with two blows on day four of the second Test match at Lord's Cricket Ground. Firstly he was struck on the elbow by Archer and soon after he received a striking blow on the neck by a bouncer bowled by the pacer and he immediately went down. Physios from both England and Australia attended Smith, but the batsman had to leave the park in order to have a concussion test. A little while later, the batsman made his way back to the crease, but a section of England crowd was seen booing the player. Smith went on to play a knock of 92 runs against England in the first innings of the second Test match. The right-handed batsman has been in a rich vein of form as he struck centuries in both innings of the first Test match. He became only the fifth Australian to score centuries in both innings of Ashes Test. He also surpassed Indian skipper Virat Kohli to become the second-fastest batsman to register 25 Test centuries. Ever since, Australia landed in Australia to play the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup and Ashes, Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft have been subjected to boos from the England crowd. The trio was involved in a ball-tampering scandal against South Africa in 2018 and this resulted in the players getting suspended for one year. In the ongoing second Test of the Ashes, England will resume day five at 96/4 with a lead of 104 in the second innings.

Shoaib Akhtar criticises Jofra Archer for not checking up on Steve Smith

Australia batsman Steve Smith was forced to retire hurt after being hit on the side of the head by a Jofra Archer bouncer on the fourth day of the second Ashes Test at Lord's on Saturday.

Smith was in sight of his third successive Ashes hundred when, on 80, he turned his head away from an express delivery from England fast bowler Archer timed at 92.4 mph.

The star batsman fell face forward onto the ground and received several minutes of on-field treatment involving both Australian and England medical staffs amid concerns he could be concussed.

He eventually got to his feet and then, after a prolonged conversation with Australia team doctor Richard Saw, decided to retire hurt with Smith receiving a generous round of applause as he walked back into the pavilion.

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Wow... hope Steve Smith is ok!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheAshes2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheAshes2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/cMqhIOwfzT">pic.twitter.com/cMqhIOwfzT</a>
— Shaun griffin (@Shaun_griffin1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shaun_griffin1/status/1162721744228179968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Steve Smith retires hurt after being hit UNDER his helmet and arm <a href="https://t.co/H7V9e64fqT">https://t.co/H7V9e64fqT</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SPORT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SPORT</a> <a href="https://t.co/7MmE4iZv0b">pic.twitter.com/7MmE4iZv0b</a>
— Brummie Steve (@Brummie_Steve) <a href="https://twitter.com/Brummie_Steve/status/1162728055871139841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This is where exactly phill Hughes was hit... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheAshes2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheAshes2019</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SteveSmith?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SteveSmith</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Archer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Archer</a> <a href="https://t.co/3ApiF4KMc3">pic.twitter.com/3ApiF4KMc3</a>
— Muhammed Jaffar/18 (@muhammedjaffar_) <a href="https://twitter.com/muhammedjaffar_/status/1162728260574203904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Australia were then 203-6, 55 runs behind England's first-innings 258.

World Cup-winner Archer, making his Test debut, had previously struck Smith on his unprotected forearm with another bouncer.

This innings saw Smith become the first batsman to post seven consecutive Ashes scores of fifty or more.

His half-century at Lord's followed the 30-year-old Smith's superb scores of 144 and 142 in Australia's 251-run win in the series opener at Edgbaston last week -- his first Test since he completed a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa that cost him the Australia captaincy.

Australia batsman Steve Smith was forced to retire hurt after being hit on the side of the head by a Jofra Archer bouncer on the fourth day of the second Ashes Test at Lord's on Saturday.

Australia batsman Steve Smith was forced to retire hurt after being hit on the side of the head by a Jofra Archer bouncer on the fourth day of the second Ashes Test at Lord's on Saturday. Smith was in sight of his third successive Ashes hundred when, on 80, he turned his head away from an express delivery from England fast bowler Archer timed at 92.4 mph. The star batsman fell face forward onto the ground and received several minutes of on-field treatment involving both Australian and England medical staffs amid concerns he could be concussed. He eventually got to his feet and then, after a prolonged conversation with Australia team doctor Richard Saw, decided to retire hurt with Smith receiving a generous round of applause as he walked back into the pavilion. Wow... hope Steve Smith is ok!#TheAshes2019 pic.twitter.com/cMqhIOwfzT — Shaun griffin (@Shaun_griffin1) August 17, 2019 × Steve Smith retires hurt after being hit UNDER his helmet and arm https://t.co/H7V9e64fqT #SPORT pic.twitter.com/7MmE4iZv0b — Brummie Steve (@Brummie_Steve) August 17, 2019 × This is where exactly phill Hughes was hit... #TheAshes2019 #SteveSmith #Archer pic.twitter.com/3ApiF4KMc3 — Muhammed Jaffar/18 (@muhammedjaffar_) August 17, 2019 × Australia were then 203-6, 55 runs behind England's first-innings 258. World Cup-winner Archer, making his Test debut, had previously struck Smith on his unprotected forearm with another bouncer. This innings saw Smith become the first batsman to post seven consecutive Ashes scores of fifty or more. His half-century at Lord's followed the 30-year-old Smith's superb scores of 144 and 142 in Australia's 251-run win in the series opener at Edgbaston last week -- his first Test since he completed a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa that cost him the Australia captaincy.

Ashes 2019: Australia's Steve Smith retires hurt after being hit by Jofra Archer bouncer

England fast bowler Jofra Archer marked his Test debut with a wicket as Australia suffered a top-order collapse before rain cut short play at Lord's on Friday.

Australia lost three wickets for 11 runs en route to slumping to 80-4 when rain forced an early lunch on the third day of the second Test.

That left Australia 178 runs behind England's first-innings 258.

The 24.1 overs that took place in the morning session represented the only action on Friday, with persistent rain leading the umpires to eventually abandon play for the day at 5:22 pm local time (1622 GMT) in a match where Wednesday's scheduled first day had already been washed out without a ball bowled. &nbsp;

Archer, on the ground where he bowled the Super Over that saw England seal a World Cup final win over New Zealand last month, had fine figures of one wicket for 18 runs in 13 overs.

Stuart Broad led the way with 2-26 in 13 overs, while fellow seamer Chris Woakes chipped in with 1-27 in nine.

But Australia star batsman Steve Smith was still there on 13 not out, with Matthew Wade unbeaten on nought.

'Long way to go'

Broad insisted there was still enough time left in the game to force a win.

"There's certainly hope for both sides," he told reporters. "This pitch has got 10 good balls in it in each day. I think we'll get 98 overs in the next two days, so I think there is chance of a result."

Meanwhile former Australia captain Steve Waugh, a mentor to the current squad, said: "There is a long way to go in the game... We're still 178 behind. That's our first target.

"If we can get there and get some more runs after that, we believe we're in with a chance. We're a long way away from that.

"Both sides, I think, will be confident they can force a victory but there is a lot of work to be done."

Australia, 1-0 up in the five-match series after their 251-run win in the first Test at Edgbaston, resumed on 30-1 having seen Broad dismiss David Warner cheaply for the third time in as many innings this Ashes.

Play started under gloomy skies, the floodlights on at full beam, with conditions difficult for batting.

Cameron Bancroft was five not out and Usman Khawaja 18 not out following a lively opening spell by Archer, in for the injured James Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, late on Thursday.

Khawaja struck two offside fours in as many balls when first-change Woakes dropped short.

But England altered the momentum with two wickets for no runs in four balls as Australia's 60-1 became 60-3.

Archer, topping speeds of 90 mph, had his first Test wicket when he nipped one back sharply to have Bancroft lbw for 13.

The 24-year-old Sussex paceman's celebrations were put on hold as the struggling opener reviewed before replays indicated the ball would have clipped the top of the stumps.

There were some boos as Smith, fresh from twin hundreds at Edgbaston in his comeback Test following a 12-month ball-tampering ban, came into bat.

He could only watch as Woakes, with England at last bowling over the wicket to Khawaja, induced an outside edge to wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow that saw the left-hander caught for 36.

Australia were 71-4 when Broad had Travis Head lbw for seven following an England review.

All-rounder Ben Stokes thought he had Edgbaston century-maker Wade lbw for a duck but the batsman's review revealed the ball had pitched outside leg stump.

Australia hold the Ashes but are bidding for their first Test series win away to England in 18 years.

England fast bowler Jofra Archer marked his Test debut with a wicket as Australia suffered a top-order collapse before rain cut short play at Lord's on Friday. Australia lost three wickets for 11 runs en route to slumping to 80-4 when rain forced an early lunch on the third day of the second Test.

England fast bowler Jofra Archer marked his Test debut with a wicket as Australia suffered a top-order collapse before rain cut short play at Lord's on Friday. Australia lost three wickets for 11 runs en route to slumping to 80-4 when rain forced an early lunch on the third day of the second Test. That left Australia 178 runs behind England's first-innings 258. The 24.1 overs that took place in the morning session represented the only action on Friday, with persistent rain leading the umpires to eventually abandon play for the day at 5:22 pm local time (1622 GMT) in a match where Wednesday's scheduled first day had already been washed out without a ball bowled. Archer, on the ground where he bowled the Super Over that saw England seal a World Cup final win over New Zealand last month, had fine figures of one wicket for 18 runs in 13 overs. Stuart Broad led the way with 2-26 in 13 overs, while fellow seamer Chris Woakes chipped in with 1-27 in nine. But Australia star batsman Steve Smith was still there on 13 not out, with Matthew Wade unbeaten on nought. 'Long way to go' Broad insisted there was still enough time left in the game to force a win. "There's certainly hope for both sides," he told reporters. "This pitch has got 10 good balls in it in each day. I think we'll get 98 overs in the next two days, so I think there is chance of a result." Meanwhile former Australia captain Steve Waugh, a mentor to the current squad, said: "There is a long way to go in the game... We're still 178 behind. That's our first target. "If we can get there and get some more runs after that, we believe we're in with a chance. We're a long way away from that. "Both sides, I think, will be confident they can force a victory but there is a lot of work to be done." Australia, 1-0 up in the five-match series after their 251-run win in the first Test at Edgbaston, resumed on 30-1 having seen Broad dismiss David Warner cheaply for the third time in as many innings this Ashes. Play started under gloomy skies, the floodlights on at full beam, with conditions difficult for batting. Cameron Bancroft was five not out and Usman Khawaja 18 not out following a lively opening spell by Archer, in for the injured James Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, late on Thursday. Khawaja struck two offside fours in as many balls when first-change Woakes dropped short. But England altered the momentum with two wickets for no runs in four balls as Australia's 60-1 became 60-3. Archer, topping speeds of 90 mph, had his first Test wicket when he nipped one back sharply to have Bancroft lbw for 13. The 24-year-old Sussex paceman's celebrations were put on hold as the struggling opener reviewed before replays indicated the ball would have clipped the top of the stumps. There were some boos as Smith, fresh from twin hundreds at Edgbaston in his comeback Test following a 12-month ball-tampering ban, came into bat. He could only watch as Woakes, with England at last bowling over the wicket to Khawaja, induced an outside edge to wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow that saw the left-hander caught for 36. Australia were 71-4 when Broad had Travis Head lbw for seven following an England review. All-rounder Ben Stokes thought he had Edgbaston century-maker Wade lbw for a duck but the batsman's review revealed the ball had pitched outside leg stump. Australia hold the Ashes but are bidding for their first Test series win away to England in 18 years.

Archer strikes as Australia slump before rain intervenes again in second Ashes Test

Is Steve Smith the next Donald Bradman?

An emotional Steve Smith said his brilliant contribution to Australia's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-win-first-ashes-test-against-england-by-251-runs-240911">first-Test humbling of England </a>was a dream come true after the pain of his ball-tampering ban.

Smith hit 144 and 142 as Australia beat England by 251 runs at Edgbaston to win the opening game of the five-match Ashes series.

It was a personal triumph for the 30-year-old, who was playing in his first Test since a 12-month ban for his role in last year's shocking ball-tampering scandal on Australia's tour of South Africa.

"It feels pretty special, winning the first Test in England is really special. It feels great, I'm loving being back playing cricket for Australia, doing what I love and contributing to wins," Smith said.&nbsp;

"To score two tons&nbsp;in a match - the first time I've done that in any form of cricket in my life - is very special and I'm very proud."

Smith's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-hailed-as-best-test-batsman-weve-seen-by-australias-tim-paine-240929">appetite for runs </a>is such that he is being compared to Australia sporting icon Don Bradman, widely regarded as the greatest-ever Test batsman.

Bradman, in a career spanning the years either side of World War II, averaged a staggering 99.94 in 52 Tests including 29 centuries.

Out of the batsmen to have played at least 20 Test innings, Smith's career average of 62.96 is second only in the all-time list to that of 'the Don'.

And by becoming just the fifth Australian to score hundreds in both innings of an Ashes Test, Smith has an achievement that eluded even Bradman.

Smith, who has now scored 25 tons&nbsp;in 65 Tests, revealed he had lost his passion for cricket as a result of his ban and an elbow injury, but he is now fully motivated again and reaping the rewards.

"I didn't dream about how I would come back. I was just letting time pass and when I got my elbow brace off after surgery something clicked and I was ready to play cricket again. I did lose that love for a little bit but I'm back doing what I love now and it's great," he said.

Smith changed the tone of the match, leading Australia to 284 all out in their first innings from a perilous 122-8.

"When I got that first hundred I was just thinking, 'don't burst into tears.' That was as special as my first hundred back in 2013. It was a relief to get it out of the way," he said.

"I copped a bit of stick out there (over the ball-tampering incident) but I'm not paying much attention to that and fortunately we've got a good Aussie contingent here. They're creating a good atmosphere for us and we're grateful for it." 
&nbsp;

An emotional Steve Smith said his brilliant contribution to Australia's first-Test humbling of England was a dream come true after the pain of his ball-tampering ban.

An emotional Steve Smith said his brilliant contribution to Australia's first-Test humbling of England was a dream come true after the pain of his ball-tampering ban. Smith hit 144 and 142 as Australia beat England by 251 runs at Edgbaston to win the opening game of the five-match Ashes series. It was a personal triumph for the 30-year-old, who was playing in his first Test since a 12-month ban for his role in last year's shocking ball-tampering scandal on Australia's tour of South Africa. "It feels pretty special, winning the first Test in England is really special. It feels great, I'm loving being back playing cricket for Australia, doing what I love and contributing to wins," Smith said. "To score two tons in a match - the first time I've done that in any form of cricket in my life - is very special and I'm very proud." Smith's appetite for runs is such that he is being compared to Australia sporting icon Don Bradman, widely regarded as the greatest-ever Test batsman. Bradman, in a career spanning the years either side of World War II, averaged a staggering 99.94 in 52 Tests including 29 centuries. Out of the batsmen to have played at least 20 Test innings, Smith's career average of 62.96 is second only in the all-time list to that of 'the Don'. And by becoming just the fifth Australian to score hundreds in both innings of an Ashes Test, Smith has an achievement that eluded even Bradman. Smith, who has now scored 25 tons in 65 Tests, revealed he had lost his passion for cricket as a result of his ban and an elbow injury, but he is now fully motivated again and reaping the rewards. "I didn't dream about how I would come back. I was just letting time pass and when I got my elbow brace off after surgery something clicked and I was ready to play cricket again. I did lose that love for a little bit but I'm back doing what I love now and it's great," he said. Smith changed the tone of the match, leading Australia to 284 all out in their first innings from a perilous 122-8. "When I got that first hundred I was just thinking, 'don't burst into tears.' That was as special as my first hundred back in 2013. It was a relief to get it out of the way," he said. "I copped a bit of stick out there (over the ball-tampering incident) but I'm not paying much attention to that and fortunately we've got a good Aussie contingent here. They're creating a good atmosphere for us and we're grateful for it."

After ton, I was thinking don't burst into tears: Ashes centurion Steve Smith

After the promising performance in the first Ashes Test against England, Australia batsman Steve Smith and spinner Nathan Lyon moved up in the latest ICC Test rankings, announced on Tuesday.

Smith now reached the third spot in the ICC batsmen Test rankings, gaining a one place move. While Lyon and fast bowler Pat Cummins are among the others to gain in the rankings after the Edgbaston Test.

Lyon's nine wickets in the match have lifted him six spots to 13th position among bowlers while Cummins has consolidated his top position with a seven-wicket match haul that helped him reach a career-best 898 rating points- the third-best for an Australia bowler in the past 50 years after Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne.

Smith's knocks of 144 and 142 won him the Man of the Match award and the formerly top-ranked batsman is back above the 900-point mark along with table leader Virat Kohli (922) and Kane Williamson (913), after having started the Test match in fourth place and with 857 points.

For England, Ben Foakes and Chris Woakes are in 69th and 70th positions in the list for batsmen after gaining one and 11 points respectively.

Opener Rory Burns'&nbsp;knock of 133 in the first innings has helped him move up 25 places to a career-best 81st position.

Fast bowler Stuart Broad, who completed 100 Test wickets against Australia during the match, has gained two places to reach 16th position while Woakes has advanced four places to take the 29th slot after grabbing four wickets in the match. Woakes has also leapfrogged compatriot Moeen Ali to reach ninth among all-rounders.

Australia defeated England in the first Ashes Test by 251-run and will play in the second Test at Lord`s from August 14.

After the promising performance in the first Ashes Test against England, Australia batsman Steve Smith and spinner Nathan Lyon moved up in the latest ICC Test rankings, announced on Tuesday.

After the promising performance in the first Ashes Test against England, Australia batsman Steve Smith and spinner Nathan Lyon moved up in the latest ICC Test rankings, announced on Tuesday. Smith now reached the third spot in the ICC batsmen Test rankings, gaining a one place move. While Lyon and fast bowler Pat Cummins are among the others to gain in the rankings after the Edgbaston Test. Lyon's nine wickets in the match have lifted him six spots to 13th position among bowlers while Cummins has consolidated his top position with a seven-wicket match haul that helped him reach a career-best 898 rating points- the third-best for an Australia bowler in the past 50 years after Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne. Smith's knocks of 144 and 142 won him the Man of the Match award and the formerly top-ranked batsman is back above the 900-point mark along with table leader Virat Kohli (922) and Kane Williamson (913), after having started the Test match in fourth place and with 857 points. For England, Ben Foakes and Chris Woakes are in 69th and 70th positions in the list for batsmen after gaining one and 11 points respectively. Opener Rory Burns' knock of 133 in the first innings has helped him move up 25 places to a career-best 81st position. Fast bowler Stuart Broad, who completed 100 Test wickets against Australia during the match, has gained two places to reach 16th position while Woakes has advanced four places to take the 29th slot after grabbing four wickets in the match. Woakes has also leapfrogged compatriot Moeen Ali to reach ninth among all-rounders. Australia defeated England in the first Ashes Test by 251-run and will play in the second Test at Lord`s from August 14.

Steve Smith, Nathan Lyon move up in Test rankings

Australia captain Tim Paine on Monday hailed Steve Smith as "probably the best Test batsman we've ever seen" after his man-of-the-match performance in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-win-first-ashes-test-against-england-by-251-runs-240911">first Ashes Test at Edgbaston</a>.

The tourists beat England by 251 runs to win the first game of the five-match series.&nbsp;

England, set an imposing target of 398 to win, collapsed to 97-7 in the post-lunch session on the fifth and final day before being bowled out for 146.

Off-spinner Nathan Lyon took 6-49 and fast bowler Pat Cummins 4-32 as Australia enjoyed their first win in all formats at Edgbaston since 2001 -- the last time they won an Ashes series in England.

The match was a personal triumph for Australia's Steve Smith, who in his first Test since a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal, scored 144 and 142.

Smith was the hero for Australia as they battled back from 122-8 in the first innings.

"I thought we were certainly up against it at that stage but we had the best player in the world at the crease," said Paine.

"Steve showed his class in both innings. We're running out of things to say about Smithy. He's probably the best Test batsman we've ever seen. We're lucky to witness it.

"Nathan bowled superbly but our three quicks took a lot of pressure off him at the other end as well. The seamers were sensational.

"We thought we could improve on our first-innings performance with the ball. All those guys are world-class performers. This morning all four of them were sensational.

"We know every Test we play in England, the crowd will be against us. I thought the guys handled themselves really well and we've come out on top."

Australia captain Tim Paine on Monday hailed Steve Smith as "probably the best Test batsman we've ever seen" after his man-of-the-match performance in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston.

Australia captain Tim Paine on Monday hailed Steve Smith as "probably the best Test batsman we've ever seen" after his man-of-the-match performance in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston. The tourists beat England by 251 runs to win the first game of the five-match series. England, set an imposing target of 398 to win, collapsed to 97-7 in the post-lunch session on the fifth and final day before being bowled out for 146. Off-spinner Nathan Lyon took 6-49 and fast bowler Pat Cummins 4-32 as Australia enjoyed their first win in all formats at Edgbaston since 2001 -- the last time they won an Ashes series in England. The match was a personal triumph for Australia's Steve Smith, who in his first Test since a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal, scored 144 and 142. Smith was the hero for Australia as they battled back from 122-8 in the first innings. "I thought we were certainly up against it at that stage but we had the best player in the world at the crease," said Paine. "Steve showed his class in both innings. We're running out of things to say about Smithy. He's probably the best Test batsman we've ever seen. We're lucky to witness it. "Nathan bowled superbly but our three quicks took a lot of pressure off him at the other end as well. The seamers were sensational. "We thought we could improve on our first-innings performance with the ball. All those guys are world-class performers. This morning all four of them were sensational. "We know every Test we play in England, the crowd will be against us. I thought the guys handled themselves really well and we've come out on top."

Steve Smith hailed as 'best Test batsman we've seen' by Australia's Tim Paine

Australia beat England by 251 runs to win the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Monday.&nbsp;

England, set an imposing target of 398 to win, collapsed to 97-7 in the post-lunch session on the fifth and final day before being bowled out for 146.

Off-spinner Nathan Lyon took 6-49 and fast bowler Pat Cummins 4-32 as Australia enjoyed their first win in all formats at Edgbaston since 2001 -- the last time they won an Ashes series in England.

Defeat for the home side ended their run of 11 successive international wins at their Birmingham 'fortress'. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The match was a personal triumph for Australia's Steve Smith, who in his first Test since a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal, scored 144 and 142.

In the process the star batsman became just the fifth Australian to score two hundreds in an Ashes Test.

His first-innings century helped guide Ashes-holders Australia to 284 after they had collapsed to 122-8.

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Australia win! 
 
A superb performance with bat and ball, especially in the second innings, sees them take a 1-0 lead in the 2019 men's Ashes.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/1W5ACF0ktJ">pic.twitter.com/1W5ACF0ktJ</a>
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Five and very quickly six wickets for Nathan Lyon! 
 
A wonderful effort from him and in the process he has passed 3️⃣5️⃣0️⃣Test wickets for Australia.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/BwczJjbS4D">pic.twitter.com/BwczJjbS4D</a>
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England replied with 374, their first-innings lead of 90 built on a maiden Test century from left-handed opener Rory Burns, who made 133, and fifties from captain Joe Root and vice-captain Ben Stokes.

Former Australia captain Smith's second-innings century and a maiden Ashes hundred from Matthew Wade allowed visiting captain Tim Paine to declare on 487-7.

Australia capitalised on the absence through injury of James Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, who only sent down four first-innings overs before breaking down with a calf problem that meant he did not bowl again in the match.

The match was the first of the International Cricket Council's new World Test Championship, with Australia's win giving them 24 points.

The five-match series continues with the second Test at Lord's starting on August 14.

Australia beat England by 251 runs to win the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Monday. England, set an imposing target of 398 to win, collapsed to 97-7 in the post-lunch session on the fifth and final day before being bowled out for 146.

Australia beat England by 251 runs to win the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Monday. England, set an imposing target of 398 to win, collapsed to 97-7 in the post-lunch session on the fifth and final day before being bowled out for 146. Off-spinner Nathan Lyon took 6-49 and fast bowler Pat Cummins 4-32 as Australia enjoyed their first win in all formats at Edgbaston since 2001 -- the last time they won an Ashes series in England. Defeat for the home side ended their run of 11 successive international wins at their Birmingham 'fortress'. The match was a personal triumph for Australia's Steve Smith, who in his first Test since a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal, scored 144 and 142. In the process the star batsman became just the fifth Australian to score two hundreds in an Ashes Test. His first-innings century helped guide Ashes-holders Australia to 284 after they had collapsed to 122-8. Australia win! A superb performance with bat and ball, especially in the second innings, sees them take a 1-0 lead in the 2019 men's Ashes.#Ashes pic.twitter.com/1W5ACF0ktJ — ICC (@ICC) August 5, 2019 × Five and very quickly six wickets for Nathan Lyon! A wonderful effort from him and in the process he has passed 3️⃣5️⃣0️⃣Test wickets for Australia.#Ashes pic.twitter.com/BwczJjbS4D — ICC (@ICC) August 5, 2019 × England replied with 374, their first-innings lead of 90 built on a maiden Test century from left-handed opener Rory Burns, who made 133, and fifties from captain Joe Root and vice-captain Ben Stokes. Former Australia captain Smith's second-innings century and a maiden Ashes hundred from Matthew Wade allowed visiting captain Tim Paine to declare on 487-7. Australia capitalised on the absence through injury of James Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, who only sent down four first-innings overs before breaking down with a calf problem that meant he did not bowl again in the match. The match was the first of the International Cricket Council's new World Test Championship, with Australia's win giving them 24 points. The five-match series continues with the second Test at Lord's starting on August 14.

Australia win first Ashes Test against England by 251 runs

Australia's Steve Smith insisted he had never lost faith in his ability as his "dream comeback" to Test cricket continued with a second hundred in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston.

Smith made 142 in Australia's second innings 487-7 declared on Sunday after the star batsman's 144 bailed them out to 284 following a collapse to 122-8 in their first innings.

With Matthew Wade making 110 on the fourth day as well, Australia set England an imposing target of 398.

Former Australia captain Smith and then deputy David Warner were both given 12-month bans for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal last year, with Cameron Bancroft -- who actually applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test against South Africa in Cape Town -- hit with a nine-month suspension by Cricket Australia.

All three batsmen are making their Test returns in this match, although Smith and Warner's international comeback came during the World Cup, where Australia lost to eventual champions England in an Edgbaston semi-final last month.

'Incredibly special'

"I've never doubted my ability," Smith told reporters after stumps.

"But, it's kind of a dream comeback in a way. To be able to score two hundreds in a match, in the first Ashes match, it's something I have never done in any form of cricket before in my life.&nbsp;It's incredibly special."

He added: "It feels like Christmas morning every morning getting to come and do this."

Sunday was also memorable for Wade, once Australia's wicketkeeper but now selected as a specialist batsman.

Wade, whose hundred was his first in Ashes cricket, had the best view at a packed Edgbaston while helping Smith add 126 for the fifth wicket, but said batting with him could be difficult.

"It's daunting to be honest," he explained.&nbsp;"Sometimes he makes it look way too easy and it hurts.&nbsp;

"He said to me the other day at breakfast he'd never scored a hundred in both innings of a Test match.&nbsp;

"When he said that, I thought we were going to be in for something special."

England batting coach Graham Thorpe praised Smith's two innings by saying: "In many ways you have to admire it and appreciate you are watching someone who is a fantastic player."

England were without James Anderson for the whole of Australia's second innings after their all-time leading Test wicket-taker remained sidelined with a calf injury that meant he bowled just four overs in the match.

Anderson missed last week's Test win over Ireland with calf trouble but former England batsman Thorpe defended the decision to bring him back for this match.

"A guy who has played as many Test matches as he has, we have to trust his view," he insisted.

England will resume Monday on 13-0, with Rory Burns, fresh from his maiden Test century in the first innings, and Jason Roy at the crease.&nbsp;

Only one of England's previous 33 home Tests has ended in a draw but Thorpe backed his side to bat out the day.&nbsp;

"We have got the character and the challenge is ahead of our guys tomorrow," he said. "It will not be easy but this is Test cricket."

Australia's Steve Smith insisted he had never lost faith in his ability as his "dream comeback" to Test cricket continued with a second hundred in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston.

Australia's Steve Smith insisted he had never lost faith in his ability as his "dream comeback" to Test cricket continued with a second hundred in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston. Smith made 142 in Australia's second innings 487-7 declared on Sunday after the star batsman's 144 bailed them out to 284 following a collapse to 122-8 in their first innings. With Matthew Wade making 110 on the fourth day as well, Australia set England an imposing target of 398. Former Australia captain Smith and then deputy David Warner were both given 12-month bans for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal last year, with Cameron Bancroft -- who actually applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test against South Africa in Cape Town -- hit with a nine-month suspension by Cricket Australia. All three batsmen are making their Test returns in this match, although Smith and Warner's international comeback came during the World Cup, where Australia lost to eventual champions England in an Edgbaston semi-final last month. 'Incredibly special' "I've never doubted my ability," Smith told reporters after stumps. "But, it's kind of a dream comeback in a way. To be able to score two hundreds in a match, in the first Ashes match, it's something I have never done in any form of cricket before in my life. It's incredibly special." He added: "It feels like Christmas morning every morning getting to come and do this." Sunday was also memorable for Wade, once Australia's wicketkeeper but now selected as a specialist batsman. Wade, whose hundred was his first in Ashes cricket, had the best view at a packed Edgbaston while helping Smith add 126 for the fifth wicket, but said batting with him could be difficult. "It's daunting to be honest," he explained. "Sometimes he makes it look way too easy and it hurts. "He said to me the other day at breakfast he'd never scored a hundred in both innings of a Test match. "When he said that, I thought we were going to be in for something special." England batting coach Graham Thorpe praised Smith's two innings by saying: "In many ways you have to admire it and appreciate you are watching someone who is a fantastic player." England were without James Anderson for the whole of Australia's second innings after their all-time leading Test wicket-taker remained sidelined with a calf injury that meant he bowled just four overs in the match. Anderson missed last week's Test win over Ireland with calf trouble but former England batsman Thorpe defended the decision to bring him back for this match. "A guy who has played as many Test matches as he has, we have to trust his view," he insisted. England will resume Monday on 13-0, with Rory Burns, fresh from his maiden Test century in the first innings, and Jason Roy at the crease. Only one of England's previous 33 home Tests has ended in a draw but Thorpe backed his side to bat out the day. "We have got the character and the challenge is ahead of our guys tomorrow," he said. "It will not be easy but this is Test cricket."

'Like Christmas every day': Steve Smith revels in 'dream' Test return

Australia set England an imposing target of 398 to win the first Ashes Test after the visitors declared their second innings on 487-7 late on the fourth day at Edgbaston on Sunday.

Steve Smith made 142, his second hundred of the match, in his first Test since he completed a 12-month ban for his role in last year's ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

Matthew Wade scored 110 as Australia piled on the runs against an England attack missing James Anderson, unable to bowl after breaking down with a calf injury earlier in the match.

England will need to set a new national record if they are to achieve an unlikely victory. The most they have ever made in the fourth innings to win a Test is 332-7 against Australia at Melbourne, back in 1928/29.

Australia 1st Innings 284 (S Smith 144; S Broad 5-86, C Woakes 3-58)

England 1st Innings 374 (R Burns 133, J Root 57, B Stokes 50;&nbsp;P Cummins 3-84, N Lyon 3-112)

Australia 2nd Innings (overnight: 124-3)

C. Bancroft c Buttler b Ali&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7 
D. Warner c Bairstow b Broad&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8 
U. Khawaja c Bairstow b Stokes&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;40 
S. Smith c Bairstow b Woakes&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;142&nbsp; 
T. Head c Bairstow b Stokes&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;51 
M. Wade c Denly b Stokes&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;110 
T. Paine b Ali&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;34 
J. Pattinson not out&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;47 
P. Cummins not out&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;26 
Extras (b11, lb2, nb6, w3)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;22

Total (7 wickets declared, 112 overs, 500 mins)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;487

Did not bat: P Siddle, N Lyon

Fall of wickets: 1-13 (Warner), 2-27 (Bancroft), 3-75 (Khawaja), 4-205 (Head), 5-331 (Smith), 6-407 (Wade), 7-409 (Paine) 
Bowling: Broad 22-2-91-1 (1w); Woakes 13-1-46-1 (1w); Ali 29-1-130-2 (2nb); Root 12-1-50-0; Stokes 22-5-85-3 (4nb, 1w); Denly 14-1-72-0

England: Rory Burns, Jason Roy, Joe Root (capt), Joe Denly, Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow (wkt), Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Stuart Broad, James Anderson

Match position: England set 398 to win&nbsp;

Toss: Australia

Umpires: Joel Wilson (WIS), Aleem Dar (PAK)

TV umpire: Chris Gaffaney (NZL)

Match referee: Ranjan Madugalle (SRI)

Australia set England an imposing target of 398 to win the first Ashes Test after the visitors declared their second innings on 487-7 late on the fourth day at Edgbaston on Sunday.

Australia set England an imposing target of 398 to win the first Ashes Test after the visitors declared their second innings on 487-7 late on the fourth day at Edgbaston on Sunday. Steve Smith made 142, his second hundred of the match, in his first Test since he completed a 12-month ban for his role in last year's ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. Matthew Wade scored 110 as Australia piled on the runs against an England attack missing James Anderson, unable to bowl after breaking down with a calf injury earlier in the match. England will need to set a new national record if they are to achieve an unlikely victory. The most they have ever made in the fourth innings to win a Test is 332-7 against Australia at Melbourne, back in 1928/29. Australia 1st Innings 284 (S Smith 144; S Broad 5-86, C Woakes 3-58) England 1st Innings 374 (R Burns 133, J Root 57, B Stokes 50; P Cummins 3-84, N Lyon 3-112) Australia 2nd Innings (overnight: 124-3) C. Bancroft c Buttler b Ali 7 D. Warner c Bairstow b Broad 8 U. Khawaja c Bairstow b Stokes 40 S. Smith c Bairstow b Woakes 142 T. Head c Bairstow b Stokes 51 M. Wade c Denly b Stokes 110 T. Paine b Ali 34 J. Pattinson not out 47 P. Cummins not out 26 Extras (b11, lb2, nb6, w3) 22 Total (7 wickets declared, 112 overs, 500 mins) 487 Did not bat: P Siddle, N Lyon Fall of wickets: 1-13 (Warner), 2-27 (Bancroft), 3-75 (Khawaja), 4-205 (Head), 5-331 (Smith), 6-407 (Wade), 7-409 (Paine) Bowling: Broad 22-2-91-1 (1w); Woakes 13-1-46-1 (1w); Ali 29-1-130-2 (2nb); Root 12-1-50-0; Stokes 22-5-85-3 (4nb, 1w); Denly 14-1-72-0 England: Rory Burns, Jason Roy, Joe Root (capt), Joe Denly, Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow (wkt), Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Stuart Broad, James Anderson Match position: England set 398 to win Toss: Australia Umpires: Joel Wilson (WIS), Aleem Dar (PAK) TV umpire: Chris Gaffaney (NZL) Match referee: Ranjan Madugalle (SRI)

Australia set England 398 to win first Ashes Test

Australia's Steve Smith scored his second hundred of his comeback Test when he reached three figures against England in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston on Sunday.

Smith, 98 not out at lunch on the fourth day, cover-drove fast bowler Stuart Broad for a boundary early in the second session to complete a 147-ball century with his 10th four.

That followed his 144 in the first innings of what is the former Australia captain's first Test since the end of a12-month ban for his role in last year's ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

Smith is now just the fifth Australia batsman to have made hundreds in both innings of an Ashes Test, following Warren Bardsley (1909), Arthur Morris (1946/47), Steve Waugh (1997) and Matthew Hayden (2002/03).

He celebrated by removing his batting helmet and waving his bat joyously towards the Australia changing room.

And while there was some applause from a packed crowd, there were also renewed chants of "Crying on the telly, we saw you crying on the telly" in a reference to the emotional press conference Smith gave in Sydney after he was sent home from South Africa.

The match in Birmingham has also seen the return to Test cricket of Australia's David Warner and Cameron Bancroft who, like Smith, both received lengthy bans for their parts in the ball-tampering incident that took place during a Test against South Africa in Cape Town.&nbsp;

When Smith, long one of the world's leading batsmen, completed his latest century -- his 25th in 65 Tests -- Australia were 236-4 in their second innings.

That gave them a significant lead of 146 runs.

Only three times have a side made more than 150 in the fourth innings to win a Test at Edgbaston, with the highest such total South Africa's 283-5 in a five-wicket win 11 years ago -- the last time England lost at the Birmingham ground.

Ashes-holders Australia are looking to win their first Test series away to England since 2001.

Australia's Steve Smith scored his second hundred of his comeback Test when he reached three figures against England in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston on Sunday. Smith, 98 not out at lunch on the fourth day, cover-drove fast bowler Stuart Broad for a boundary early in the second session to complete a 147-ball century with his 10th four.

Australia's Steve Smith scored his second hundred of his comeback Test when he reached three figures against England in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston on Sunday. Smith, 98 not out at lunch on the fourth day, cover-drove fast bowler Stuart Broad for a boundary early in the second session to complete a 147-ball century with his 10th four. That followed his 144 in the first innings of what is the former Australia captain's first Test since the end of a12-month ban for his role in last year's ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. Smith is now just the fifth Australia batsman to have made hundreds in both innings of an Ashes Test, following Warren Bardsley (1909), Arthur Morris (1946/47), Steve Waugh (1997) and Matthew Hayden (2002/03). He celebrated by removing his batting helmet and waving his bat joyously towards the Australia changing room. And while there was some applause from a packed crowd, there were also renewed chants of "Crying on the telly, we saw you crying on the telly" in a reference to the emotional press conference Smith gave in Sydney after he was sent home from South Africa. The match in Birmingham has also seen the return to Test cricket of Australia's David Warner and Cameron Bancroft who, like Smith, both received lengthy bans for their parts in the ball-tampering incident that took place during a Test against South Africa in Cape Town. When Smith, long one of the world's leading batsmen, completed his latest century -- his 25th in 65 Tests -- Australia were 236-4 in their second innings. That gave them a significant lead of 146 runs. Only three times have a side made more than 150 in the fourth innings to win a Test at Edgbaston, with the highest such total South Africa's 283-5 in a five-wicket win 11 years ago -- the last time England lost at the Birmingham ground. Ashes-holders Australia are looking to win their first Test series away to England since 2001.

Ashes 2019: Australia's Steve Smith scores second hundred of comeback Test

Steve Smith put Australia in a strong position in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Sunday, with his unbeaten 98 steering his side to 231-4, a lead of 141 over England, at lunch on day four.

Resuming on 124-3, Smith continued to put England to the sword, passing 50 in the fourth over of the day.

England have not dismissed Smith with a red ball for a score under 50 since the second innings of the Trent Bridge Test in 2015.

Travis Head settled down after some nervy moments to reach his half-century before Ben Stokes enticed an edge from Head, who departed for 51 to bring an end to a partnership worth 130.

The session was again all about Smith, though, as he neared his 24th Test century, with Australia very much in the driving seat with six second-innings wickets still in hand.

Steve Smith put Australia in a strong position in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Sunday, with his unbeaten 98 steering his side to 231-4, a lead of 141 over England, at lunch on day four.

Steve Smith put Australia in a strong position in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Sunday, with his unbeaten 98 steering his side to 231-4, a lead of 141 over England, at lunch on day four. Resuming on 124-3, Smith continued to put England to the sword, passing 50 in the fourth over of the day. England have not dismissed Smith with a red ball for a score under 50 since the second innings of the Trent Bridge Test in 2015. Travis Head settled down after some nervy moments to reach his half-century before Ben Stokes enticed an edge from Head, who departed for 51 to bring an end to a partnership worth 130. The session was again all about Smith, though, as he neared his 24th Test century, with Australia very much in the driving seat with six second-innings wickets still in hand.

Unbeaten Steve Smith puts Australia in strong position to earn Ashes advantage

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2019-steve-smith-not-bothered-by-being-booed-during-edgbaston-test-240126">Steve Smith</a>'s father <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-steve-smiths-father-throws-out-his-cricket-gear-127586">Peter Smith</a> commented on his son's brilliant century that brought Australia back into the match after they were struggling at 122 for 8 at one stage against England during Ashes opener in Edgbaston.&nbsp;

Former Australian skipper is playing his first Test after returning from a year-long suspension for his involvement in the infamous ball-tampering scandal.&nbsp;

He smashed his 24th Test century and probably one of his most important but he was greeted with boos by the hostile English crowd.

But Smith's father praised the epic century and said was emotional watching him get his hundred.&nbsp;

"I must admit, to begin with, I had more trepidation than I probably ever have had, which was strange. Then it all unfolded and it became emotional. It was emotional watching him get his hundred. And I’m still quite a bit emotional about it," Steve Smith's father Peter Smith told The Daily Telegraph on Saturday.

"I think there was probably relief from his point of view, and you share it with him," he added.&nbsp;

"He had worked very, very hard to get to that point. That was one thing he did say to me, it was one of the hardest innings he’s had to play. And you could see that in that hundred. And you could see the effect that it was having on him," said Peter.&nbsp;

"It’s been difficult but you just concentrate on what you can control. You can’t do anything else. There’s no point," he said.

"You work on what you can control, what you can do to help. Putting balls in the ball machine, things like that. You have to work on that only and that’s what we did. Worked on what we could control."

On being asked about whether the Edgbaston ton has been one of Smith's best, he replied, "I think the innings he played in Brisbane at the beginning of the last Ashes was one of his best."

"But this one, given the context of all that has gone to get to that point now, and he played under a lot of pressure as people fell around him … that probably made it. If it’s not his best, it’s way up there," Peter added.&nbsp;

Steve Smith's father Peter Smith commented on his son's brilliant century that brought Australia back into the match after they were struggling at 122 for 8 at one stage against England during Ashes opener in Edgbaston.

Steve Smith's father Peter Smith commented on his son's brilliant century that brought Australia back into the match after they were struggling at 122 for 8 at one stage against England during Ashes opener in Edgbaston. Former Australian skipper is playing his first Test after returning from a year-long suspension for his involvement in the infamous ball-tampering scandal. He smashed his 24th Test century and probably one of his most important but he was greeted with boos by the hostile English crowd. But Smith's father praised the epic century and said was emotional watching him get his hundred. "I must admit, to begin with, I had more trepidation than I probably ever have had, which was strange. Then it all unfolded and it became emotional. It was emotional watching him get his hundred. And I’m still quite a bit emotional about it," Steve Smith's father Peter Smith told The Daily Telegraph on Saturday. "I think there was probably relief from his point of view, and you share it with him," he added. "He had worked very, very hard to get to that point. That was one thing he did say to me, it was one of the hardest innings he’s had to play. And you could see that in that hundred. And you could see the effect that it was having on him," said Peter. "It’s been difficult but you just concentrate on what you can control. You can’t do anything else. There’s no point," he said. "You work on what you can control, what you can do to help. Putting balls in the ball machine, things like that. You have to work on that only and that’s what we did. Worked on what we could control." On being asked about whether the Edgbaston ton has been one of Smith's best, he replied, "I think the innings he played in Brisbane at the beginning of the last Ashes was one of his best." "But this one, given the context of all that has gone to get to that point now, and he played under a lot of pressure as people fell around him … that probably made it. If it’s not his best, it’s way up there," Peter added.

Steve Smith's father comments on his son's epic Ashes century

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-imran-are-fantastic-people-if-they-want-i-can-intervene-in-kashmir-issue-trump-240059">PM Modi, Imran are fantastic people, if they want I can intervene in Kashmir issue: Trump</a>

After US president offered to mediate on Kashmir during his meeting Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan last month, Trump once again reiterated his stand asserting that it was "really up to Prime Minister Modi to accept the offer of mediation."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-more-missiles-third-round-of-tests-in-a-week-240037">North Korea fires more missiles; third round of tests in over a week</a>

North Korea has fired unidentified short-range projectiles, the South Korean news agency Yonhap reported Friday, citing the country's military as a source.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rescuers-retrieve-55-migrant-bodies-from-capsized-boat-off-libyan-coast-240042">Rescuers retrieve 55 migrant bodies from capsized boat off Libyan coast</a>

Fifty-five bodies have been recovered so far off the Libyan coast, an aid worker said on Saturday, after a wooden boat carrying hundreds of migrants capsized on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-to-allow-women-to-travel-abroad-without-male-guardian-approval-240033">Saudi Arabia to allow women to travel abroad without male 'guardian' approval</a>

Saudi Arabia will allow women to travel abroad without approval from a male "guardian", the government said Thursday, ending a restriction that drew international censure and prompted extreme attempts to flee the kingdom.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-lost-bit-of-love-for-cricket-at-one-point-says-steve-smith-after-ashes-comeback-century-240047">I lost bit of love for cricket at one point, says Steve Smith after Ashes comeback century</a>

Australia's Steve Smith said he had contemplated the end of his career after marking his first Test since a year-long ball-tampering ban with a superb century on the opening day of the 2019 Ashes.

PM Modi, Imran are fantastic people, if they want I can intervene in Kashmir issue: Trump After US president offered to mediate on Kashmir during his meeting Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan last month, Trump once again reiterated his stand asserting that it was "really up to Prime Minister Modi to accept the offer of mediation.

PM Modi, Imran are fantastic people, if they want I can intervene in Kashmir issue: Trump After US president offered to mediate on Kashmir during his meeting Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan last month, Trump once again reiterated his stand asserting that it was "really up to Prime Minister Modi to accept the offer of mediation." North Korea fires more missiles; third round of tests in over a week North Korea has fired unidentified short-range projectiles, the South Korean news agency Yonhap reported Friday, citing the country's military as a source. Rescuers retrieve 55 migrant bodies from capsized boat off Libyan coast Fifty-five bodies have been recovered so far off the Libyan coast, an aid worker said on Saturday, after a wooden boat carrying hundreds of migrants capsized on Thursday. Saudi Arabia to allow women to travel abroad without male 'guardian' approval Saudi Arabia will allow women to travel abroad without approval from a male "guardian", the government said Thursday, ending a restriction that drew international censure and prompted extreme attempts to flee the kingdom. I lost bit of love for cricket at one point, says Steve Smith after Ashes comeback century Australia's Steve Smith said he had contemplated the end of his career after marking his first Test since a year-long ball-tampering ban with a superb century on the opening day of the 2019 Ashes.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Australia's Steve Smith said he had contemplated the end of his career after marking his first Test since a year-long ball-tampering ban with a superb <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2019-eng-v-aus-first-test-day-one-smith-ton-takes-australia-to-284-all-out-in-first-ashes-test-240025">century on the opening day of the 2019 Ashes</a>.

The tourists were struggling at 17-2 at Edgbaston on Thursday when former Australia captain Smith walked out to bat and they later collapsed to 122-8.

But Smith, ignoring the repeated boos of the crowd, made 144 in a total of 284 after current Australia skipper Tim Paine won the toss before England closed on 10-0.

Smith's 24th Test century was the star batsman's first international hundred since he returned to Australia duty during a World Cup where he made 85 in last month's Edgbaston semi-final defeat by eventual champions England.

"There were times throughout the last 15 months where I didn't know if I was ever going to play cricket again," Smith, renowned for his obsessive devotion to the sport, told reporters after stumps.

"I lost a bit of love for it at one point, particularly when I had my elbow operation.&nbsp;

"It was really bizarre that it was the day I got the brace off my elbow, I found a love for it again.&nbsp;

"I don't know what it was, it was like a trigger that just said 'right I'm ready to go again, I want to play and I want to go out and play for Australia and make people proud and just do what I love doing'.

There were many familiar Smith traits on show in Birmingham, including the repeated fidgeting in his stance, while the crowd could scarcely have been tougher on the 30-year-old than he was when berating himself for the occasional loose shot.

Also on display was Smith's ability to bat well alongside tailenders, with Australia's last two wickets more than doubling their score.

Smith's near six-hour innings was a chanceless affair until he was last man out, with his biggest scare coming when given out lbw for 34 to Stuart Broad not playing a shot only to overturn the decision on review.

'Shivers down my spine'

Then skipper Smith and Warner, his deputy, were both given 12-month bans for their roles in the scandal in South Africa, while Cameron Bancroft -- the man who brazenly applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test in Cape Town -- was suspended from international duty for nine months by Cricket Australia.

All three batsmen were dismissed by Broad on Thursday, with openers Bancroft and Warner managing just 10 between them for the Ashes-holders.&nbsp;

The trio were booed on their way out to the middle and when they were dismissed, with even Smith's century a cue for yet more jeering.

"I know I've got the support of the boys in the room and, for me, that's all that really matters," insisted Smith following what he labelled one of his "best" centuries.&nbsp;

"They went berserk on the balcony when I got to my hundred and just looking up at them, it sent shivers down my spine."

When Broad eventually bowled Smith, the paceman had his 100th Test wicket against Australia after completing an innings haul of 5-86.

Australia's task was made easier by James Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, only bowling four overs before going off with a calf injury.&nbsp;

"He actually came and said sorry to all the bowlers, not that he's got anything to be sorry for," Broad said of Anderson, his longstanding new-ball colleague.&nbsp;

"He feels like he's let the bowling group down but he hasn't. Niggles are a part of fast bowling."

Broad paid tribute to Smith but, having been on the receiving end of a "bit of stick" by Australian crowds, refused to condemn spectators for their taunts.

"It's part of being a professional sportsman," he said. "Footballers get it all the time but it's a bit unexpected sometimes in cricket.&nbsp;

"Smith seemed to deal with it OK."

Australia's Steve Smith said he had contemplated the end of his career after marking his first Test since a year-long ball-tampering ban with a superb century on the opening day of the 2019 Ashes.

Australia's Steve Smith said he had contemplated the end of his career after marking his first Test since a year-long ball-tampering ban with a superb century on the opening day of the 2019 Ashes. The tourists were struggling at 17-2 at Edgbaston on Thursday when former Australia captain Smith walked out to bat and they later collapsed to 122-8. But Smith, ignoring the repeated boos of the crowd, made 144 in a total of 284 after current Australia skipper Tim Paine won the toss before England closed on 10-0. Smith's 24th Test century was the star batsman's first international hundred since he returned to Australia duty during a World Cup where he made 85 in last month's Edgbaston semi-final defeat by eventual champions England. "There were times throughout the last 15 months where I didn't know if I was ever going to play cricket again," Smith, renowned for his obsessive devotion to the sport, told reporters after stumps. "I lost a bit of love for it at one point, particularly when I had my elbow operation. "It was really bizarre that it was the day I got the brace off my elbow, I found a love for it again. "I don't know what it was, it was like a trigger that just said 'right I'm ready to go again, I want to play and I want to go out and play for Australia and make people proud and just do what I love doing'. There were many familiar Smith traits on show in Birmingham, including the repeated fidgeting in his stance, while the crowd could scarcely have been tougher on the 30-year-old than he was when berating himself for the occasional loose shot. Also on display was Smith's ability to bat well alongside tailenders, with Australia's last two wickets more than doubling their score. Smith's near six-hour innings was a chanceless affair until he was last man out, with his biggest scare coming when given out lbw for 34 to Stuart Broad not playing a shot only to overturn the decision on review. 'Shivers down my spine' Then skipper Smith and Warner, his deputy, were both given 12-month bans for their roles in the scandal in South Africa, while Cameron Bancroft -- the man who brazenly applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test in Cape Town -- was suspended from international duty for nine months by Cricket Australia. All three batsmen were dismissed by Broad on Thursday, with openers Bancroft and Warner managing just 10 between them for the Ashes-holders. The trio were booed on their way out to the middle and when they were dismissed, with even Smith's century a cue for yet more jeering. "I know I've got the support of the boys in the room and, for me, that's all that really matters," insisted Smith following what he labelled one of his "best" centuries. "They went berserk on the balcony when I got to my hundred and just looking up at them, it sent shivers down my spine." When Broad eventually bowled Smith, the paceman had his 100th Test wicket against Australia after completing an innings haul of 5-86. Australia's task was made easier by James Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, only bowling four overs before going off with a calf injury. "He actually came and said sorry to all the bowlers, not that he's got anything to be sorry for," Broad said of Anderson, his longstanding new-ball colleague. "He feels like he's let the bowling group down but he hasn't. Niggles are a part of fast bowling." Broad paid tribute to Smith but, having been on the receiving end of a "bit of stick" by Australian crowds, refused to condemn spectators for their taunts. "It's part of being a professional sportsman," he said. "Footballers get it all the time but it's a bit unexpected sometimes in cricket. "Smith seemed to deal with it OK."

I lost bit of love for cricket at one point, says Steve Smith after Ashes comeback century

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has called for cricket to ditch its requirement for neutral umpires in the wake of a slew of poor decisions that blighted the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2019-eng-v-aus-first-test-day-one-smith-ton-takes-australia-to-284-all-out-in-first-ashes-test-240025">opening day of the Ashes series</a>.

Umpires Aleem Dar and Joel Wilson drew widespread criticism after a rocky day one at Edgbaston on Friday, with a number of their calls over-turned by the decision review system after Australia elected to bat.

English and Australian umpires dominate the ICC's elite umpires panel but are ruled out of officiating the Ashes due to the global cricket's requirement for neutral nation umpires to control matches.

"I would like to think the game has come far enough now for the game to not have neutral umpires,” Ponting told Cricket Australia's website (cricket.com.au).

"People might say that with all the technology we’ve got now, it doesn’t matter that much.

"But it’s not a good spectacle when pretty obviously wrong decisions are made.

"There’s been a lot a negativity about the DRS over the years, but we’re pretty lucky that we had it last night."

Ponting, part of the Cricket Committee at the MCC, the custodians of the Laws of Cricket, said he would raise the matter at the next MCC meeting.

"It's already been spoken about a lot among the players," he said.

"If it's not brought up, I'll make sure it's added to the agenda.

"Surely (English umpire) Richard Kettleborough and the like would want to be umpiring the best series.

"The best umpires can end up missing out on all the big tournaments.

"It could force umpires into retirement a bit early."

Australia were bowled out for 284, with England 10 for no loss at stumps.

Umpiring standards were put in the spotlight after the World Cup final between England and New Zealand at Lord's last month, with Ben Stokes erroneously awarded an extra run by the standing umpires in the 50th over of the home side's chase.

England went on to win the match by total boundaries scored after a tied Super Over.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has called for cricket to ditch its requirement for neutral umpires in the wake of a slew of poor decisions that blighted the opening day of the Ashes series.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has called for cricket to ditch its requirement for neutral umpires in the wake of a slew of poor decisions that blighted the opening day of the Ashes series. Umpires Aleem Dar and Joel Wilson drew widespread criticism after a rocky day one at Edgbaston on Friday, with a number of their calls over-turned by the decision review system after Australia elected to bat. English and Australian umpires dominate the ICC's elite umpires panel but are ruled out of officiating the Ashes due to the global cricket's requirement for neutral nation umpires to control matches. "I would like to think the game has come far enough now for the game to not have neutral umpires,” Ponting told Cricket Australia's website (cricket.com.au). "People might say that with all the technology we’ve got now, it doesn’t matter that much. "But it’s not a good spectacle when pretty obviously wrong decisions are made. "There’s been a lot a negativity about the DRS over the years, but we’re pretty lucky that we had it last night." Ponting, part of the Cricket Committee at the MCC, the custodians of the Laws of Cricket, said he would raise the matter at the next MCC meeting. "It's already been spoken about a lot among the players," he said. "If it's not brought up, I'll make sure it's added to the agenda. "Surely (English umpire) Richard Kettleborough and the like would want to be umpiring the best series. "The best umpires can end up missing out on all the big tournaments. "It could force umpires into retirement a bit early." Australia were bowled out for 284, with England 10 for no loss at stumps. Umpiring standards were put in the spotlight after the World Cup final between England and New Zealand at Lord's last month, with Ben Stokes erroneously awarded an extra run by the standing umpires in the 50th over of the home side's chase. England went on to win the match by total boundaries scored after a tied Super Over.

Re-think neutral umpires, Ricky Ponting says after Ashes debacle

Former Australian skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-lost-bit-of-love-for-cricket-at-one-point-says-steve-smith-after-ashes-comeback-century-240047">Steve Smith</a>, who is playing in his first Test after returning&nbsp;from the ban for his involvement in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-how-cameron-bancroft-tampered-the-ball-on-steve-smiths-orders-in-3rd-test-against-the-proteas-126435">infamous ball-tampering row</a>, is not bothered by being booed by Edgbaston crowd.&nbsp;

Smith smashed a brilliant century to help his team put up a competitive total in the first innings of the first Test.&nbsp;When the Australian side was struggling at 122 for 8 at one stage, Smith scored 144 and held the innings together after England threatened to bowl them out cheaply.&nbsp;

It was Smith's 24th Test century and probably one of his most important but he was greeted with boos by the hostile English crowd.

Besides that, the crowd also waved sandpapers at both Cameron Bancroft and David Warner post their dismissals as they walked off the field.&nbsp;

All three batsmen were involved in the ball-tampering scandal.&nbsp;

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This kind of stuff spurs Steve Smith on.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/Sx1rHmkd2H">pic.twitter.com/Sx1rHmkd2H</a>
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It’s a sandpaper send off from the Hollies. 
 
David Warner gone for the second time today from Stuart Broad. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheAshes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheAshes</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvAUS</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Edgbaston?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Edgbaston</a> <a href="https://t.co/I2xhk3MK2q">pic.twitter.com/I2xhk3MK2q</a>
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"It doesn't bother me to be perfectly honest. I know that I've got the support of the guys in the room and for me that's all that really matters," on being asked about the treatment he received at Edgbaston.&nbsp;

"They went beserk on the balcony when I got to 100 and just looking up at them, it really sent shivers down my spine," Smith added.&nbsp;

"It's been a long time coming, getting another Test 100. It was just a huge moment and again, I said it, I'm lost for words, I don't really know what to say," said Smith.&nbsp;

At the close of Day one, England were 10 without loss.&nbsp;

Former Australian skipper Steve Smith, who is playing in his first Test after returning from the ban for his involvement in the infamous ball-tampering row, is not bothered by being booed by Edgbaston crowd.

Former Australian skipper Steve Smith, who is playing in his first Test after returning from the ban for his involvement in the infamous ball-tampering row, is not bothered by being booed by Edgbaston crowd. Smith smashed a brilliant century to help his team put up a competitive total in the first innings of the first Test. When the Australian side was struggling at 122 for 8 at one stage, Smith scored 144 and held the innings together after England threatened to bowl them out cheaply. It was Smith's 24th Test century and probably one of his most important but he was greeted with boos by the hostile English crowd. Besides that, the crowd also waved sandpapers at both Cameron Bancroft and David Warner post their dismissals as they walked off the field. All three batsmen were involved in the ball-tampering scandal. This kind of stuff spurs Steve Smith on.#ENGvAUS #Ashes #Ashes2019 pic.twitter.com/Sx1rHmkd2H — CricBlog (@cric_blog) August 2, 2019 × It’s a sandpaper send off from the Hollies. David Warner gone for the second time today from Stuart Broad. #TheAshes | #ENGvAUS | #Edgbaston pic.twitter.com/I2xhk3MK2q — Ploughmans CC (@PloughmansCC) August 1, 2019 × "It doesn't bother me to be perfectly honest. I know that I've got the support of the guys in the room and for me that's all that really matters," on being asked about the treatment he received at Edgbaston. "They went beserk on the balcony when I got to 100 and just looking up at them, it really sent shivers down my spine," Smith added. "It's been a long time coming, getting another Test 100. It was just a huge moment and again, I said it, I'm lost for words, I don't really know what to say," said Smith. At the close of Day one, England were 10 without loss.

Ashes 2019: Steve Smith 'not bothered' by being booed during Edgbaston Test

Steve Smith marked his return to Test cricket with a hundred before Australia were bowled out for 284 on the opening day of the Ashes series against England at Edgbaston on Thursday.

The former captain was playing his first match at this level since completing a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year.

Australia were struggling at 17-2 when Smith walked in to bat after current captain Tim Paine won the toss.

And they were in dire straits at 122-8.

But their last two wickets more than doubled the score before Smith was last man out for 144 -- his 24th Test century.

Stuart Broad, who eventually bowled Smith, led England's attack with 5-86 in an innings in which 37-year-old spearhead James Anderson only managed four overs before leaving the field with a calf injury.

Ashes-holders Australia are looking to win their first Test series away to England for 18 years.

Steve Smith marked his return to Test cricket with a hundred before Australia were bowled out for 284 on the opening day of the Ashes series against England at Edgbaston on Thursday.

Steve Smith marked his return to Test cricket with a hundred before Australia were bowled out for 284 on the opening day of the Ashes series against England at Edgbaston on Thursday. The former captain was playing his first match at this level since completing a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year. Australia were struggling at 17-2 when Smith walked in to bat after current captain Tim Paine won the toss. And they were in dire straits at 122-8. But their last two wickets more than doubled the score before Smith was last man out for 144 -- his 24th Test century. Stuart Broad, who eventually bowled Smith, led England's attack with 5-86 in an innings in which 37-year-old spearhead James Anderson only managed four overs before leaving the field with a calf injury. Ashes-holders Australia are looking to win their first Test series away to England for 18 years.

Smith ton takes Australia to 284 all out on day one of first Ashes Test

Australia captain Tim Paine won the toss and decided to bat in the first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anderson-could-hold-key-to-ashes-says-mcgrath-239251">Ashes</a> Test against England at Edgbaston on Thursday.

Ashes-holders Australia has not won a match of any kind at Edgbaston since 2001, while England has won their past 11 internationals at the Birmingham ground.

Australia is looking for their first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-contest-too-close-to-call-says-former-australia-captain-steve-waugh-238960">Ashes series win</a> in England in 18 years.

"The wicket looks nice and hard and dry," said Tim Paine at the toss. "Hopefully we post a good total and we've got (off-spinner) Nathan Lyon up our sleeve at the back end of the game."

As expected, the visitors included all three players given lengthy bans for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year -- David Warner, Cameron Bancroft and former captain Steve Smith.

Openers Bancroft and Warner knew they would be booed on their way to the middle, judging by the hostile reception Warner and top-order batsman Smith received during the recent World Cup in England and Wales.

They did not have to wait even that long to face the boo-boys, with the Australia team as a whole jeered onto the field for a pre-match anthem ceremony -- an unusual occurrence before a Test match in England.

Reserve wicketkeeper Matthew Wade was included as a specialist batsman after making three hundred for Australia A on their tour of England.&nbsp;

Usman Khawaja was also back in the top order following a hamstring injury that cut short his involvement in the World Cup, which saw Australia defeated by eventual champions England in an Edgbaston semi-final.

Australia also included experienced paceman Peter Siddle, who has been playing English county cricket this season for Essex, in an attack featuring James Pattinson and Pat Cummins.

"He's a class performer there," said wicketkeeper Paine. "He complements the other two seamers really nicely."

But there was no place for World Cup spearhead Mitchell Starc. &nbsp;

England captain Joe Root named his side on Wednesday.

James Anderson, England's all-time leading wicket-taker, returned after missing last week's win in a one-off Test against Ireland at Lord's.

But World Cup hero Jofra Archer was left waiting for a Test debut after struggling with a side injury.

Fellow World Cup winners Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler returned after being rested against Ireland.

Root had no qualms about losing the toss, saying: "I'm not disappointed at all. It's overcast conditions. It'll be nice to get off to a good start.

"We've go so many great options to go to, especially with the ball. This morning is a great opportunity to exploit that.&nbsp;

"We love playing here, we get fantastic support wherever we go. The atmosphere here, in particular, is extremely exciting."

The Edgbaston match is the first of a five-Test series and the first of the ICC's new World Test Championship, with players' names and squad numbers displayed on the backs of their shirts for the first time in this format.&nbsp;

Australia captain Tim Paine won the toss and decided to bat in the first Ashes Test against England at Edgbaston on Thursday. Ashes-holders Australia has not won a match of any kind at Edgbaston since 2001, while England has won their past 11 internationals at the Birmingham ground.

Australia captain Tim Paine won the toss and decided to bat in the first Ashes Test against England at Edgbaston on Thursday. Ashes-holders Australia has not won a match of any kind at Edgbaston since 2001, while England has won their past 11 internationals at the Birmingham ground. Australia is looking for their first Ashes series win in England in 18 years. "The wicket looks nice and hard and dry," said Tim Paine at the toss. "Hopefully we post a good total and we've got (off-spinner) Nathan Lyon up our sleeve at the back end of the game." As expected, the visitors included all three players given lengthy bans for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year -- David Warner, Cameron Bancroft and former captain Steve Smith. Openers Bancroft and Warner knew they would be booed on their way to the middle, judging by the hostile reception Warner and top-order batsman Smith received during the recent World Cup in England and Wales. They did not have to wait even that long to face the boo-boys, with the Australia team as a whole jeered onto the field for a pre-match anthem ceremony -- an unusual occurrence before a Test match in England. Reserve wicketkeeper Matthew Wade was included as a specialist batsman after making three hundred for Australia A on their tour of England. Usman Khawaja was also back in the top order following a hamstring injury that cut short his involvement in the World Cup, which saw Australia defeated by eventual champions England in an Edgbaston semi-final. Australia also included experienced paceman Peter Siddle, who has been playing English county cricket this season for Essex, in an attack featuring James Pattinson and Pat Cummins. "He's a class performer there," said wicketkeeper Paine. "He complements the other two seamers really nicely." But there was no place for World Cup spearhead Mitchell Starc. England captain Joe Root named his side on Wednesday. James Anderson, England's all-time leading wicket-taker, returned after missing last week's win in a one-off Test against Ireland at Lord's. But World Cup hero Jofra Archer was left waiting for a Test debut after struggling with a side injury. Fellow World Cup winners Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler returned after being rested against Ireland. Root had no qualms about losing the toss, saying: "I'm not disappointed at all. It's overcast conditions. It'll be nice to get off to a good start. "We've go so many great options to go to, especially with the ball. This morning is a great opportunity to exploit that. "We love playing here, we get fantastic support wherever we go. The atmosphere here, in particular, is extremely exciting." The Edgbaston match is the first of a five-Test series and the first of the ICC's new World Test Championship, with players' names and squad numbers displayed on the backs of their shirts for the first time in this format.

Australia win toss and bat against England in first Ashes Test

Australia coach Justin Langer says an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anderson-could-hold-key-to-ashes-says-mcgrath-239251">Ashes</a> return for Cameron Bancroft would be "a great story" but knows he will face a hostile reception from England fans after his ball-tampering ban.

Bancroft, 26, is set to open the batting in Thursday's first Test at Edgbaston, with Australia's top order also likely to feature <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/cameron-bancroft-joins-steve-smith-and-david-warner-in-australias-ashes-squad-238644&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjlgs2W3tzjAhWL7nMBHW9qDEUQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0EAcaSZ4lNdf3iTyI_At_Y">David Warner and Steve Smith.</a>

If that is the case, it would mean all three players who were banned for their roles in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year would be in Australia's XI.

Smith and Warner have already experienced plenty of boos from English crowds during the recent World Cup.

Bancroft, not selected for the one-day tournament, will almost certainly experience more of the same given he was the one who applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test away to South Africa in a blatant flouting of cricket's rulebook.

"It would be a great story if he comes back into the team," Langer said at Edgbaston on Tuesday.

"His development after what happened in Cape Town has been extraordinary."

Langer, a former Australia opener, said: "We know what the reception is going to be. There's nothing we can do about it. We don't know (how he will cope) actually, but we'll find out.

"He's a good kid and as tough as anyone you could meet. To endure the scrutiny of the past 14 months, especially the first part of it, I think he's had a pretty good dress rehearsal."

Langer confirmed batsman Usman Khawaja, who missed Australia's World Cup semi-final defeat by England at Edgbaston with a hamstring injury, had been passed fit and would play in the opening match of the five-Test series.

"He's a seasoned pro for us, he averages 40-odd in Test cricket, his hammy is good, he's running well, he's passed all the fitness tests, so he's ready to go," Langer said.

Fast bowler James Pattinson is also set to feature in what would be his first Test since February 2016, lining up alongside Pat Cummins and one of Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle or Josh Hazlewood in Australia's pace attack.&nbsp;

"There's probably three to be fair - Starcy, Peter Siddle and Josh Hazlewood - for one spot," added Langer.

Australia holds the Ashes but has not won a Test series away to England since 2001.

Australia coach Justin Langer says an Ashes return for Cameron Bancroft would be "a great story" but knows he will face a hostile reception from England fans after his ball-tampering ban.

Australia coach Justin Langer says an Ashes return for Cameron Bancroft would be "a great story" but knows he will face a hostile reception from England fans after his ball-tampering ban. Bancroft, 26, is set to open the batting in Thursday's first Test at Edgbaston, with Australia's top order also likely to feature David Warner and Steve Smith. If that is the case, it would mean all three players who were banned for their roles in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year would be in Australia's XI. Smith and Warner have already experienced plenty of boos from English crowds during the recent World Cup. Bancroft, not selected for the one-day tournament, will almost certainly experience more of the same given he was the one who applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test away to South Africa in a blatant flouting of cricket's rulebook. "It would be a great story if he comes back into the team," Langer said at Edgbaston on Tuesday. "His development after what happened in Cape Town has been extraordinary." Langer, a former Australia opener, said: "We know what the reception is going to be. There's nothing we can do about it. We don't know (how he will cope) actually, but we'll find out. "He's a good kid and as tough as anyone you could meet. To endure the scrutiny of the past 14 months, especially the first part of it, I think he's had a pretty good dress rehearsal." Langer confirmed batsman Usman Khawaja, who missed Australia's World Cup semi-final defeat by England at Edgbaston with a hamstring injury, had been passed fit and would play in the opening match of the five-Test series. "He's a seasoned pro for us, he averages 40-odd in Test cricket, his hammy is good, he's running well, he's passed all the fitness tests, so he's ready to go," Langer said. Fast bowler James Pattinson is also set to feature in what would be his first Test since February 2016, lining up alongside Pat Cummins and one of Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle or Josh Hazlewood in Australia's pace attack. "There's probably three to be fair - Starcy, Peter Siddle and Josh Hazlewood - for one spot," added Langer. Australia holds the Ashes but has not won a Test series away to England since 2001.

Langer predicts hostile Ashes reception for Bancroft from England fans

Cameron Bancroft along with Steve Smith and David Warner have been included in Australia's squad for a five-Test Ashes series against England.&nbsp;

Australia have unveiled the 17-member squad for the upcoming Ashes series, which is scheduled to kick-off from August 1&nbsp;at Edgbaston.&nbsp;

All three mentioned&nbsp;batsmen served lengthy bans for their roles in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/funny-twitter-reactions-on-steve-smiths-ball-tampering-scandal-126440">ball-tampering scandal</a> in South Africa last year.

In a press conference, they had admitted that they used sandpaper to the ball&nbsp;while fielding during a Test in Cape Town against South Africa.&nbsp;

Former captain Smith and his then deputy Warner were given 12-month suspensions by Cricket Australia, with Bancroft banned for nine months.&nbsp;

"We have chosen 17 players as this gives us the cover and flexibility we believe we will need to ensure we are in good shape throughout a demanding schedule of five Test matches in just over six weeks," said Chairman of Selectors Trevor Hohns.&nbsp;

Matthew Wade and Mitchell Marsh have been recalled while uncapped Queenslander Michael Neser is a surprise selection in the pace attack.&nbsp;

Wade, who last played a Test in September 2017, edged out Alex Carey as the squad's reserve wicketkeeper-batsman behind captain Tim Paine.&nbsp;

The pace department is led by world number one Test bowler Pat Cummins, alongside Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, James Pattinson and Peter Siddle, Marsh and Neser.&nbsp;

Alongside&nbsp;off-spinner Nathan Lyon, all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne will serve as a second spinning option in the team.&nbsp;

"We have opted to select one frontline spinner in Nathan Lyon. We have faith in his ability, we know our strength lies in our pace attack and we have Marnus Labuschagne's leg-spin as another spin option as he has bowled almost 200 overs for county side Glamorgan in first-class cricket this season," said&nbsp;Hohns.&nbsp;

"We believe the squad is an excellent blend of high-quality batsmen and top-class fast bowlers, plus Nathan Lyon, who we regard as the world's best off-spinner in all conditions. It is a good mix of all the talents," he added.&nbsp;

Holders Australia looking to win their first Ashes series in England since 2001.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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National selector Trevor Hohns has just announced our 17-man squad for the <a href="https://twitter.com/Qantas?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Qantas</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> Tour of the UK: Paine (c), Bancroft, Cummins, Harris, Hazlewood, Head, Khawaja, Labuschagne, Lyon, MMarsh, Neser, Pattinson, Siddle, Smith, Starc, Wade, Warner <a href="https://t.co/xm0i0K9lW3">pic.twitter.com/xm0i0K9lW3</a>
— Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/1154707936834457601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Here's the squad:&nbsp;

Tim Paine (c), Cameron Bancroft, Patrick Cummins, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Peter Siddle, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner

Cameron Bancroft along with Steve Smith and David Warner have been included in Australia's squad for a five-Test Ashes series against England. Australia have unveiled the 17-member squad for the upcoming Ashes series, which is scheduled to kick-off from August 1 at Edgbaston.

Cameron Bancroft along with Steve Smith and David Warner have been included in Australia's squad for a five-Test Ashes series against England. Australia have unveiled the 17-member squad for the upcoming Ashes series, which is scheduled to kick-off from August 1 at Edgbaston. All three mentioned batsmen served lengthy bans for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year. In a press conference, they had admitted that they used sandpaper to the ball while fielding during a Test in Cape Town against South Africa. Former captain Smith and his then deputy Warner were given 12-month suspensions by Cricket Australia, with Bancroft banned for nine months. "We have chosen 17 players as this gives us the cover and flexibility we believe we will need to ensure we are in good shape throughout a demanding schedule of five Test matches in just over six weeks," said Chairman of Selectors Trevor Hohns. Matthew Wade and Mitchell Marsh have been recalled while uncapped Queenslander Michael Neser is a surprise selection in the pace attack. Wade, who last played a Test in September 2017, edged out Alex Carey as the squad's reserve wicketkeeper-batsman behind captain Tim Paine. The pace department is led by world number one Test bowler Pat Cummins, alongside Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, James Pattinson and Peter Siddle, Marsh and Neser. Alongside off-spinner Nathan Lyon, all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne will serve as a second spinning option in the team. "We have opted to select one frontline spinner in Nathan Lyon. We have faith in his ability, we know our strength lies in our pace attack and we have Marnus Labuschagne's leg-spin as another spin option as he has bowled almost 200 overs for county side Glamorgan in first-class cricket this season," said Hohns. "We believe the squad is an excellent blend of high-quality batsmen and top-class fast bowlers, plus Nathan Lyon, who we regard as the world's best off-spinner in all conditions. It is a good mix of all the talents," he added. Holders Australia looking to win their first Ashes series in England since 2001. National selector Trevor Hohns has just announced our 17-man squad for the @Qantas #Ashes Tour of the UK: Paine (c), Bancroft, Cummins, Harris, Hazlewood, Head, Khawaja, Labuschagne, Lyon, MMarsh, Neser, Pattinson, Siddle, Smith, Starc, Wade, Warner pic.twitter.com/xm0i0K9lW3 — Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) July 26, 2019 × Here's the squad: Tim Paine (c), Cameron Bancroft, Patrick Cummins, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Peter Siddle, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner

Cameron Bancroft joins Steve Smith and David Warner in Australia's Ashes squad

Sixteen months after leaving Test cricket in disgrace over the ball-tampering furore, Steve Smith's preparations for the Ashes have gone up to a manic level as the former skipper looks to return to red ball cricket in top form.

Australia captain Tim Paine said former skipper Smith had given batting coach Graeme Hick long and taxing work-outs in the nets as he looks to hone his formidable game ahead of the Ashes opener in Edgbaston on August&nbsp;1.

Renowned for his obsessive approach to training, Smith is back in the Test squad along with David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, the other two players hit with long bans for their involvement in the Cape Town scandal in March, 2018.

"You don't become one of the best players in the world and average 60 in Test cricket if you don't have some sort of a mission," Paine told reporters of Smith at the team's training base in Southampton.

"The boys have been having a bit of a laugh the last couple of days because nothing's changed - he's hit a million balls and our coach's arm is falling off already on day two of the trip.

"It's great to see that him, and David (Warner) and Cameron Bancroft have come back in and fitted perfectly in our group.

"They are guys who have always trained at exceptionally high standards and set the standard for others.

"The three of them have been outstanding since they've been back and involved."

Australia are bidding to retain the urn and erase the disappointment of their one-day World Cup campaign, which ended in the semi-finals at the hands of hosts and eventual champions England.

Australia will play a four-day intra-squad match starting on Tuesday, with two sides padded out by Australia A players.

With the final Ashes squad to be named after, Paine said it would be no gentle hit in the park.

"Both sides will be looking to win and both sides will have individual players wanting to do really well to press their final case for Ashes selection," he said.

"At the moment it's a fair dinkum game of cricket and that's been made really clear.

"We're looking at it as a real opportunity to test each other's skills so when we get to the first Test we know exactly where we're at and everyone's had a perfect preparation, and everyone's been put on pressure."

Top order batsman Usman Khawaja, who suffered a hamstring strain during the World Cup semi-final, is being rested for the unofficial match but Paine said he was expected to be fully fit and available for selection for Edgbaston.

"I don't think he's in serious doubt (for the Test)," Paine said. "He's in a rehab stage so the decision has been made that he won't play at this stage.

"There is a possibility, maybe, if something were to happen to someone else he might be right for the back end of the (practice) game."

Sixteen months after leaving Test cricket in disgrace over the ball-tampering furore, Steve Smith's preparations for the Ashes have gone up to a manic level as the former skipper looks to return to red ball cricket in top form.

Sixteen months after leaving Test cricket in disgrace over the ball-tampering furore, Steve Smith's preparations for the Ashes have gone up to a manic level as the former skipper looks to return to red ball cricket in top form. Australia captain Tim Paine said former skipper Smith had given batting coach Graeme Hick long and taxing work-outs in the nets as he looks to hone his formidable game ahead of the Ashes opener in Edgbaston on August 1. Renowned for his obsessive approach to training, Smith is back in the Test squad along with David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, the other two players hit with long bans for their involvement in the Cape Town scandal in March, 2018. "You don't become one of the best players in the world and average 60 in Test cricket if you don't have some sort of a mission," Paine told reporters of Smith at the team's training base in Southampton. "The boys have been having a bit of a laugh the last couple of days because nothing's changed - he's hit a million balls and our coach's arm is falling off already on day two of the trip. "It's great to see that him, and David (Warner) and Cameron Bancroft have come back in and fitted perfectly in our group. "They are guys who have always trained at exceptionally high standards and set the standard for others. "The three of them have been outstanding since they've been back and involved." Australia are bidding to retain the urn and erase the disappointment of their one-day World Cup campaign, which ended in the semi-finals at the hands of hosts and eventual champions England. Australia will play a four-day intra-squad match starting on Tuesday, with two sides padded out by Australia A players. With the final Ashes squad to be named after, Paine said it would be no gentle hit in the park. "Both sides will be looking to win and both sides will have individual players wanting to do really well to press their final case for Ashes selection," he said. "At the moment it's a fair dinkum game of cricket and that's been made really clear. "We're looking at it as a real opportunity to test each other's skills so when we get to the first Test we know exactly where we're at and everyone's had a perfect preparation, and everyone's been put on pressure." Top order batsman Usman Khawaja, who suffered a hamstring strain during the World Cup semi-final, is being rested for the unofficial match but Paine said he was expected to be fully fit and available for selection for Edgbaston. "I don't think he's in serious doubt (for the Test)," Paine said. "He's in a rehab stage so the decision has been made that he won't play at this stage. "There is a possibility, maybe, if something were to happen to someone else he might be right for the back end of the (practice) game."

Steve Smith raring to go, Usman Khawaja expected to be fit for Ashes opener

&nbsp;Amid English fans jeering Australia's Steve Smith and David Warner during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-are-playing-their-best-cricket-says-sri-lankas-angelo-mathews-233248">World Cup</a>, South Africa spinner Imran Tahir lent his support to the duo saying that they have served their punishment and he respects them.

"We haven't spoken about it. They have served their punishment. They are world-beaters and they have my respect. Everyone makes mistakes ... I have made mistakes in my life too," Tahir said.

In March last year, when Australia toured to South Africa for a four-match Test series, Smith and Warner were found guilty of tampering the ball and consequently, were handed a year-long ban.

After the incident, this is the first time when <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-david-warner-need-to-have-thick-skin-to-shine-at-world-cup-says-brett-lee-222826&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwji5tPJ653jAhWu6XMBHXUTAwsQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Zx2BC2Ni8i6FRp-KxKes0">Smith and Warner</a> will compete against the Proteas.

Australia have already reached in the semi-finals while South Africa have already been knocked out from the semi-finals race and will be playing their last match in this edition of the quadrennial tournament.

Although the match will not be able to change South Africa's fortune in the premier tournament, the Proteas can try to end their campaign with a win.

When asked if there would be sledging during the match, Tahir said,&nbsp;"Not from us, but if it comes from them then we won`t hold back."South Africa will face Australia on July 6.

Amid English fans jeering Australia's Steve Smith and David Warner during the World Cup, South Africa spinner Imran Tahir lent his support to the duo saying that they have served their punishment and he respects them.

Amid English fans jeering Australia's Steve Smith and David Warner during the World Cup, South Africa spinner Imran Tahir lent his support to the duo saying that they have served their punishment and he respects them. "We haven't spoken about it. They have served their punishment. They are world-beaters and they have my respect. Everyone makes mistakes ... I have made mistakes in my life too," Tahir said. In March last year, when Australia toured to South Africa for a four-match Test series, Smith and Warner were found guilty of tampering the ball and consequently, were handed a year-long ban. After the incident, this is the first time when Smith and Warner will compete against the Proteas. Australia have already reached in the semi-finals while South Africa have already been knocked out from the semi-finals race and will be playing their last match in this edition of the quadrennial tournament. Although the match will not be able to change South Africa's fortune in the premier tournament, the Proteas can try to end their campaign with a win. When asked if there would be sledging during the match, Tahir said, "Not from us, but if it comes from them then we won`t hold back."South Africa will face Australia on July 6.

I respect Steve Smith, David Warner, says Imran Tahir ahead South Africa-Australia clash

David Warner says he's living the dream playing for Australia at the World Cup and no amount of booing from England fans eager to remind him of his one-year ban for ball tampering is going to spoil his mood.

The left-handed batsman shared an opening stand of 123 with his captain Aaron Finch as the defending champions beat hosts and pre-tournament favourites England at Lord's on Tuesday to book a place in the semi-finals.

It was <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-century-means-a-lot-as-a-batsman-david-warner-226679&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjf0ae2oInjAhULa94KHXJmDkUQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1gNLJ8k39J8oxapR3YvxKE">Warner's </a>seventh match for Australia after returning from the ban for his part in the Newlands scandal and his innings of 53 runs took his tournament tally to 500 at an average of 83.33.

There were <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2019-english-crowds-stupid-to-boo-david-warner-says-manager-224097&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjf0ae2oInjAhULa94KHXJmDkUQFjAGegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3khnEIvZC8-dVi_P8eivTh">boos for Warner</a> and his former captain Steve Smith when they took the field but the 32-year-old from the tough southeastern Sydney suburbs was not letting it bother him.

"At the end of the day. People have the right to come in here, they pay their dollars and if they want to boo us, they can. As I said before, I thrive on that stuff, I love it. I went out to the corner there... and copped it&nbsp;," Warner told reporters at Lord's.

"At the end of the day you have to smile -- they pay their money to come and watch us and we are grateful for them to come and sit down and watch us. I always just smile. I take my glasses off and look everyone in the eye and just smile,'' Warner said.

"That is what it's about, I am living the dream, I am out here at Lord's, playing cricket for my country," he added.

Warner said 12 months out of international cricket and returning to his Randwick-Petersham club had effected a change in his outlook on his sport.

"For me, it is about enjoying the game. When it is taken away from you, you realise what it is all about. Going back to grassroots was fantastic," he said.

"I really saw smiles on people's faces to be out there on a Saturday afternoon, all the volunteers that come down and put time and effort in, whether it is making the drinks, making the lunches,'' said <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-david-warner-hits-166-as-australia-rack-up-381-against-bangladesh-229016&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjf0ae2oInjAhULa94KHXJmDkUQFjAIegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0ajJzv8ta5EITyTV0s3WlU">Warner</a>.

"People's parents, my mum, my dad coming down, it is just great. You can't take that for granted. I am just grateful for the second opportunity to come back here and represent my country and do the country proud. You know I am just excited to be back here and playing World Cup cricket for Australia," added Warner.

Australia's next match is back at Lord's on Saturday against New Zealand, who they beat in the final to win the 2015 World Cup.

David Warner says he's living the dream playing for Australia at the World Cup and no amount of booing from England fans eager to remind him of his one-year ban for ball tampering is going to spoil his mood.

David Warner says he's living the dream playing for Australia at the World Cup and no amount of booing from England fans eager to remind him of his one-year ban for ball tampering is going to spoil his mood. The left-handed batsman shared an opening stand of 123 with his captain Aaron Finch as the defending champions beat hosts and pre-tournament favourites England at Lord's on Tuesday to book a place in the semi-finals. It was Warner's seventh match for Australia after returning from the ban for his part in the Newlands scandal and his innings of 53 runs took his tournament tally to 500 at an average of 83.33. There were boos for Warner and his former captain Steve Smith when they took the field but the 32-year-old from the tough southeastern Sydney suburbs was not letting it bother him. "At the end of the day. People have the right to come in here, they pay their dollars and if they want to boo us, they can. As I said before, I thrive on that stuff, I love it. I went out to the corner there... and copped it ," Warner told reporters at Lord's. "At the end of the day you have to smile -- they pay their money to come and watch us and we are grateful for them to come and sit down and watch us. I always just smile. I take my glasses off and look everyone in the eye and just smile,'' Warner said. "That is what it's about, I am living the dream, I am out here at Lord's, playing cricket for my country," he added. Warner said 12 months out of international cricket and returning to his Randwick-Petersham club had effected a change in his outlook on his sport. "For me, it is about enjoying the game. When it is taken away from you, you realise what it is all about. Going back to grassroots was fantastic," he said. "I really saw smiles on people's faces to be out there on a Saturday afternoon, all the volunteers that come down and put time and effort in, whether it is making the drinks, making the lunches,'' said Warner. "People's parents, my mum, my dad coming down, it is just great. You can't take that for granted. I am just grateful for the second opportunity to come back here and represent my country and do the country proud. You know I am just excited to be back here and playing World Cup cricket for Australia," added Warner. Australia's next match is back at Lord's on Saturday against New Zealand, who they beat in the final to win the 2015 World Cup.

World Cup: I thrive on crowd booing, I love it, says Australia's David Warner

England captain Eoin Morgan insists it is not his job to tell supporters how to react to shamed Australia stars David Warner and Steve Smith when the arch-rivals meet in a crucial World Cup clash on Tuesday.

Warner and Smith have found themselves booed by some fans in England after returning to international cricket following year-long bans for ball-tampering.

Australia coach Justin Langer has called for the taunts to stop, with India captain Virat Kohli and Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed telling their supporters to lay off the duo.

But, although the Australia clash is being played at Lord's -- the 'home of cricket' where crowds are traditionally polite -- Morgan refused to issue a plea to respect Warner and Smith.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-semi-final-scenario-pakistan-stay-alive-england-vs-australia-at-lords-key-to-shaping-top-four-230038">England vs Australia at Lord's key to shaping top four</a>

"I'm not expecting anything. I think fans and supporters up and down the country will have different reactions, as they will around the world. So we'll see," Morgan told reporters at Lord's on Monday.

"Supporters pay a lot of money, they do. And sport is beautiful in many ways, because it attracts people from far and wide.

"And you often see crowds offering support to both sets of players in the grounds."

'Acceptance will take time'

Morgan added: "You don't know how sports fans will react.

"Just because two guys have been punished, served their punishment and returned to play, it doesn't mean they will be accepted back into the cricket community straight away. It will take time."

England batsman Jonny Bairstow accused Australia of double standards in asking fans to go easy on Warner and Smith because former coach Darren Lehmann had previously urged supporters to verbally abuse England quick Stuart Broad during an Ashes series 'Down Under'.&nbsp;

Asked for his opinion of Bairstow's comments, Morgan said: "I don't have a view on it. I think every instance is different, every team is different.

"I believe that was a long time ago under a different regime. I don't know."

Australia captain Aaron Finch said he was resigned to the taunts continuing but claimed they had not hurt Warner and Smith in any case.

"Whether someone comes out and says do or don't, it's going to happen regardless anyway," said Finch at his pre-match press conference.&nbsp;

"It hasn't affected our boys one bit. I can honestly say that. If anything it's given them a bit more motivation.&nbsp;

"As a player you don't tend to hear a hell of a lot of stuff from the fans.

"I'm sure that's the last thing from Steve or Davie's mind when they walk out to bat, if a handful of people or a whole stadium are booing."&nbsp;

Defeats by Sri Lanka and Pakistan mean England could need to win two of their three remaining group matches against Australia, India and New Zealand to reach the semi-finals.

But Morgan tried to play down the significance of the latest clash with their old enemies by saying: "It's not must-win yet. We don't need to win every game to get to the semi-final."

England captain Eoin Morgan insists it is not his job to tell supporters how to react to shamed Australia stars David Warner and Steve Smith when the arch-rivals meet in a crucial World Cup clash on Tuesday.

England captain Eoin Morgan insists it is not his job to tell supporters how to react to shamed Australia stars David Warner and Steve Smith when the arch-rivals meet in a crucial World Cup clash on Tuesday. Warner and Smith have found themselves booed by some fans in England after returning to international cricket following year-long bans for ball-tampering. Australia coach Justin Langer has called for the taunts to stop, with India captain Virat Kohli and Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed telling their supporters to lay off the duo. But, although the Australia clash is being played at Lord's -- the 'home of cricket' where crowds are traditionally polite -- Morgan refused to issue a plea to respect Warner and Smith. Also Read: England vs Australia at Lord's key to shaping top four "I'm not expecting anything. I think fans and supporters up and down the country will have different reactions, as they will around the world. So we'll see," Morgan told reporters at Lord's on Monday. "Supporters pay a lot of money, they do. And sport is beautiful in many ways, because it attracts people from far and wide. "And you often see crowds offering support to both sets of players in the grounds." 'Acceptance will take time' Morgan added: "You don't know how sports fans will react. "Just because two guys have been punished, served their punishment and returned to play, it doesn't mean they will be accepted back into the cricket community straight away. It will take time." England batsman Jonny Bairstow accused Australia of double standards in asking fans to go easy on Warner and Smith because former coach Darren Lehmann had previously urged supporters to verbally abuse England quick Stuart Broad during an Ashes series 'Down Under'. Asked for his opinion of Bairstow's comments, Morgan said: "I don't have a view on it. I think every instance is different, every team is different. "I believe that was a long time ago under a different regime. I don't know." Australia captain Aaron Finch said he was resigned to the taunts continuing but claimed they had not hurt Warner and Smith in any case. "Whether someone comes out and says do or don't, it's going to happen regardless anyway," said Finch at his pre-match press conference. "It hasn't affected our boys one bit. I can honestly say that. If anything it's given them a bit more motivation. "As a player you don't tend to hear a hell of a lot of stuff from the fans. "I'm sure that's the last thing from Steve or Davie's mind when they walk out to bat, if a handful of people or a whole stadium are booing." Defeats by Sri Lanka and Pakistan mean England could need to win two of their three remaining group matches against Australia, India and New Zealand to reach the semi-finals. But Morgan tried to play down the significance of the latest clash with their old enemies by saying: "It's not must-win yet. We don't need to win every game to get to the semi-final."

'Acceptance will take time': Eoin Morgan refuses to issue plea to respect Warner and Smith

Practising cover drives in shower is just one manifestation of Steve Smith's batting obsession but the Australian has assured his anxious team at the World Cup that he is not overdoing it.

The 30-yer-old has returned from a ball-tampering scandal with his hunger for runs intact as his three half-centuries in five innings would attest.

The 12-month absence has not diminished Smith's dedication to his craft which took the right-hander to the top of test batting rankings before his exile.

Assistant coach Ricky Ponting, 10 rooms down the hotel corridor, has heard him shadow practising in England and coach Justin Langer said Smith hones his cover drives in shower.

"I don't know how he's spying on me in the shower!" an amused Smith, who relishes long hours in the nets, told reporters.

"Yeah, I'm known to play a few shots here and there.

"I always have a bat in my room and Ricky was actually rooming about ten rooms up from me the other day and said, 'Were you batting at seven o'clock this morning?'

"He could hear me tapping on the ground.

"I said, 'Yeah, I was actually.'"

The team management has asked Smith to consider toning down his routine which may exhaust the top order bulwark who will play a key role in Australia's title defence.

Smith said nine years of international cricket had taught him when to relax.

"It's been spoken about a little bit, but I think at the same time you've got to trust people's preparation," he said.

"I've been around quite a while now and I've played a lot of cricket and you've got to trust the individual's preparation and what they are trying to do.

"It's one thing that's I guess learned with experience and I'm reasonably experienced now and I've learned a bit over the last couple of years to sometimes just take the foot off the pedal in the nets and save myself up a little bit."

Australia are seeking their fifth win in six matches when they take on Bangladesh at Trent Bridge on Thursday.

Practising cover drives in shower is just one manifestation of Steve Smith's batting obsession but the Australian has assured his anxious team at the World Cup that he is not overdoing it.

Practising cover drives in shower is just one manifestation of Steve Smith's batting obsession but the Australian has assured his anxious team at the World Cup that he is not overdoing it. The 30-yer-old has returned from a ball-tampering scandal with his hunger for runs intact as his three half-centuries in five innings would attest. The 12-month absence has not diminished Smith's dedication to his craft which took the right-hander to the top of test batting rankings before his exile. Assistant coach Ricky Ponting, 10 rooms down the hotel corridor, has heard him shadow practising in England and coach Justin Langer said Smith hones his cover drives in shower. "I don't know how he's spying on me in the shower!" an amused Smith, who relishes long hours in the nets, told reporters. "Yeah, I'm known to play a few shots here and there. "I always have a bat in my room and Ricky was actually rooming about ten rooms up from me the other day and said, 'Were you batting at seven o'clock this morning?' "He could hear me tapping on the ground. "I said, 'Yeah, I was actually.'" The team management has asked Smith to consider toning down his routine which may exhaust the top order bulwark who will play a key role in Australia's title defence. Smith said nine years of international cricket had taught him when to relax. "It's been spoken about a little bit, but I think at the same time you've got to trust people's preparation," he said. "I've been around quite a while now and I've played a lot of cricket and you've got to trust the individual's preparation and what they are trying to do. "It's one thing that's I guess learned with experience and I'm reasonably experienced now and I've learned a bit over the last couple of years to sometimes just take the foot off the pedal in the nets and save myself up a little bit." Australia are seeking their fifth win in six matches when they take on Bangladesh at Trent Bridge on Thursday.

Australia's Steve Smith practises cover drives in shower

David Warner has overcome the challenges of reintegrating himself into the Australian team and with the explosive opener nearing his best, he could well end up as top scorer in this World Cup, feels assistant coach Ricky Ponting.

After struggling for rhythm in early matches, Warner came close to his damaging best in a match-winning knock of 107 off 111 balls against Pakistan on Wednesday in his fourth game back in Australian colours.

The 32-year-old right-handed batsman sat out for one year, serving a ban imposed by the ICC on ball tampering charges in South Africa last year.

He came out of that ban on March 29, along with his former captain Steve Smith.

Asked if other sides will now be more fearful of Warner, including Sri Lankans whom <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-pat-cummins-silent-workhorse-in-australias-squad-while-others-hog-limelight-226914">Australia </a>face on Friday, Ponting said,&nbsp;"I think they should. You know with David Warner at his best, if you miss your line and length then he's going to make you pay.''

"Every game is a different set of challenges for every player. Davey capitalised on Pakistan not executing as well as they could have. We know against Sri Lanka, they'll be well-planned. But <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/this-century-means-a-lot-as-a-batsman-david-warner-226679">Warner </a>at his best is difficult to bowl to and I think he was back to somewhere near his best," Ponting was quoted as saying by 'cricket.Com.Au'

Ponting said the handbrake is off for a rejuvenated Warner and if "he keeps playing like that (against Pakistan) for the rest of the tournament, he's probably going to be the leading run scorer" in this World Cup.

The assistant coach, however, conceded that the challenges of reintegrating himself back into a team after being out of it for over a year weighed on Warner.

"We'd all seen that he (Warner) probably had not been batting as fluently as we're used to seeing. It was more of a mental thing than anything, he was just holding back a little bit and not playing with the freedom we're used to seeing him play with," Ponting said.

"It was just about being a bit freer in everything he did. I think he was just trying a bit too hard, making a statement coming back in a World Cup. Wanting to do everything right and impress everybody rather than just going out and hitting the ball and scoring runs like we've seen him do for 10 years," he said.&nbsp;

Ponting said Warner in earlier matches (before the match against Pakistan) seemed a little bit more worried about getting out than scoring runs but he was told by the <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-allan-border-backs-defending-champs-australia-to-keep-building-momentum-226766">Australian </a>support staff to just go out, see the ball and hit the ball.

"We said to him after the last game, 'mate, just go out and see the ball, hit the ball.' He got off to a good start (against Pakistan) and continued on for 30 or 40 overs," Ponting, who spoke to Warner after Australia's 36-run defeat to India on June 9, said.&nbsp;

"You could see by the way he moved into his shots and picking up the length early, he hit a lot of pull shots early in his innings, which is always a good sign for him. He'd taken the handbrake off which has allowed himself to play with a bit more freedom," the former captain said of Warner's innings against Pakistan.

David Warner has overcome the challenges of reintegrating himself into the Australian team and with the explosive opener nearing his best, he could well end up as top scorer in this World Cup, feels assistant coach Ricky Ponting.

David Warner has overcome the challenges of reintegrating himself into the Australian team and with the explosive opener nearing his best, he could well end up as top scorer in this World Cup, feels assistant coach Ricky Ponting. After struggling for rhythm in early matches, Warner came close to his damaging best in a match-winning knock of 107 off 111 balls against Pakistan on Wednesday in his fourth game back in Australian colours. The 32-year-old right-handed batsman sat out for one year, serving a ban imposed by the ICC on ball tampering charges in South Africa last year. He came out of that ban on March 29, along with his former captain Steve Smith. Asked if other sides will now be more fearful of Warner, including Sri Lankans whom Australia face on Friday, Ponting said, "I think they should. You know with David Warner at his best, if you miss your line and length then he's going to make you pay.'' "Every game is a different set of challenges for every player. Davey capitalised on Pakistan not executing as well as they could have. We know against Sri Lanka, they'll be well-planned. But Warner at his best is difficult to bowl to and I think he was back to somewhere near his best," Ponting was quoted as saying by 'cricket.Com.Au' Ponting said the handbrake is off for a rejuvenated Warner and if "he keeps playing like that (against Pakistan) for the rest of the tournament, he's probably going to be the leading run scorer" in this World Cup. The assistant coach, however, conceded that the challenges of reintegrating himself back into a team after being out of it for over a year weighed on Warner. "We'd all seen that he (Warner) probably had not been batting as fluently as we're used to seeing. It was more of a mental thing than anything, he was just holding back a little bit and not playing with the freedom we're used to seeing him play with," Ponting said. "It was just about being a bit freer in everything he did. I think he was just trying a bit too hard, making a statement coming back in a World Cup. Wanting to do everything right and impress everybody rather than just going out and hitting the ball and scoring runs like we've seen him do for 10 years," he said. Ponting said Warner in earlier matches (before the match against Pakistan) seemed a little bit more worried about getting out than scoring runs but he was told by the Australian support staff to just go out, see the ball and hit the ball. "We said to him after the last game, 'mate, just go out and see the ball, hit the ball.' He got off to a good start (against Pakistan) and continued on for 30 or 40 overs," Ponting, who spoke to Warner after Australia's 36-run defeat to India on June 9, said. "You could see by the way he moved into his shots and picking up the length early, he hit a lot of pull shots early in his innings, which is always a good sign for him. He'd taken the handbrake off which has allowed himself to play with a bit more freedom," the former captain said of Warner's innings against Pakistan.

World Cup: Beware of David Warner as he is nearing his best, says Ricky Ponting

Australia's knack for grinding out wins despite not playing at their best is helping them build momentum for a strong tilt at the World Cup title, former skipper Allan Border has said.

Defending champions <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-david-warner-stars-in-australias-41-run-win-over-pakistan-226669">Australia beat Pakistan</a> by 41 runs in Taunton on Wednesday to seal their third victory in four games at the tournament, with their only defeat coming against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-shikhar-dhawan-shines-as-india-beat-holders-australia-by-36-runs-225791">India </a>on Sunday.

A struggling middle order and a lack of support for the main pace duo of Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins have emerged as Australia's main concerns in the early days of the World Cup, but the team are currently second in the overall standings.

"Australia aren't playing at their best but they are winning matches. That's the way I saw the win over Pakistan," Border wrote in a column for the International Cricket Council.

"In the early stages of the World Cup, you want to be right amongst the pacesetters after four rounds and Australia very much are. They are building nicely and all the teams will feel the total package is still in them. They'll talk about being relentless and consistent... and they can create momentum for some of the big teams they still have to play," Border said.

Border added that Australia should consider using <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-steve-smiths-reaction-when-virat-kohli-stopped-indian-fans-from-booing-him-225897">Steve Smith</a> to shore up their bowling attack and backed the 30-year-old to use his leg-spin to good effect.

"The fifth, and even the fourth, bowling option is looking like a slight concern for them," Border said. "I think they should look at Steve Smith having a bowl, I really do."

"Leg-spin takes wickets and whether it's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zampa-hand-warmers-row-finch-defends-spinner-over-ball-tampering-allegation-225853">Adam Zampa</a> coming back in or Smith trying a bit of his spin, that should improve the attack dramatically," Border added.

Here's the&nbsp;complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa536962-32f2-4838-8fec-9a38afd969a9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_28.jpg" />

Australia next play Sri Lanka at The Oval in London on Saturday.

Australia's knack for grinding out wins despite not playing at their best is helping them build momentum for a strong tilt at the World Cup title, former skipper Allan Border has said.

Australia's knack for grinding out wins despite not playing at their best is helping them build momentum for a strong tilt at the World Cup title, former skipper Allan Border has said. Defending champions Australia beat Pakistan by 41 runs in Taunton on Wednesday to seal their third victory in four games at the tournament, with their only defeat coming against India on Sunday. A struggling middle order and a lack of support for the main pace duo of Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins have emerged as Australia's main concerns in the early days of the World Cup, but the team are currently second in the overall standings. "Australia aren't playing at their best but they are winning matches. That's the way I saw the win over Pakistan," Border wrote in a column for the International Cricket Council. "In the early stages of the World Cup, you want to be right amongst the pacesetters after four rounds and Australia very much are. They are building nicely and all the teams will feel the total package is still in them. They'll talk about being relentless and consistent... and they can create momentum for some of the big teams they still have to play," Border said. Border added that Australia should consider using Steve Smith to shore up their bowling attack and backed the 30-year-old to use his leg-spin to good effect. "The fifth, and even the fourth, bowling option is looking like a slight concern for them," Border said. "I think they should look at Steve Smith having a bowl, I really do." "Leg-spin takes wickets and whether it's Adam Zampa coming back in or Smith trying a bit of his spin, that should improve the attack dramatically," Border added. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: Australia next play Sri Lanka at The Oval in London on Saturday.

World Cup: Allan Border backs defending champs Australia to keep building momentum

Emphasising on the importance of dot balls in limited overs cricket, Australia pacer Pat Cummins is delighted that the hard work he has put in to become accurate is starting to pay off.

Cummins is increasingly looking like the workhorse of this Australian team, plugging away with the wickets while others hog the headlines.

The 26-year-old looked in great rhythm against Pakistan, taking 3 for 33 to derail their chase.

The right-arm pacer has bowled the most number of dot balls in the ongoing World Cup and the two bowlers that follow him are also from Australia -- Mitchell Starc and Nathan Coulter-Nile.

"That's the big improvement in my game in the last couple of years, the ability to hold a length and make it difficult to get runs," Cummins said after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-17-australia-vs-pakistan-226457">Australia's 41-run win against Pakistan</a> on Wednesday.

"If you give away easy singles then 300 becomes quite an achievable score. Cutting out the singles is huge, it means if you give away a boundary it might not be that big over of ten or 11, it may just be a five or a six," Cummins added.

After they were set 308 for win, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-david-warner-stars-in-australias-41-run-win-over-pakistan-226669">Pakistan </a>scored steadily but Australia held their nerve and took wickets at regular intervals.

An eighth-wicket stand between Sarfaraz and Wahab Riaz, who scored 45 from just 39 balls, made it nervy for the defending champions until the last three wickets fell for just two runs - securing a third victory at the World Cup.

"It goes to show that everyone can bat these days. It was a bit closer than we would have liked, so it was good to get those couple of wickets and finish it off. We gave them a bit too much width and suddenly they were back in the game, it's a good lesson to learn," Cummins said.

Cummins and his strike partner Starc have 18 wickets between them in the tournament while the rest of the team have a combined 12.

Australia set a target of 307 on the back of a 146-run opening partnership between Warner (107) and Finch (82).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-century-means-a-lot-as-a-batsman-david-warner-226679">Warner </a>scored his first-century post his one-year international ban for ball-tampering.

"We were so pumped for him, he was really open and honest after the Oval game. He was playing more timid than normal but we saw his mindset change from the start here,'' he said.

"I think if you look over the transition of his career, he's become more measured in his approach. His energy out in the middle is still an example, the way you see him sprinting hard for singles and bouncing down the wicket. He looks really sharp in this tournament," Cummins said.

Emphasising on the importance of dot balls in limited overs cricket, Australia pacer Pat Cummins is delighted that the hard work he has put in to become accurate is starting to pay off.

Emphasising on the importance of dot balls in limited overs cricket, Australia pacer Pat Cummins is delighted that the hard work he has put in to become accurate is starting to pay off. Cummins is increasingly looking like the workhorse of this Australian team, plugging away with the wickets while others hog the headlines. The 26-year-old looked in great rhythm against Pakistan, taking 3 for 33 to derail their chase. The right-arm pacer has bowled the most number of dot balls in the ongoing World Cup and the two bowlers that follow him are also from Australia -- Mitchell Starc and Nathan Coulter-Nile. "That's the big improvement in my game in the last couple of years, the ability to hold a length and make it difficult to get runs," Cummins said after Australia's 41-run win against Pakistan on Wednesday. "If you give away easy singles then 300 becomes quite an achievable score. Cutting out the singles is huge, it means if you give away a boundary it might not be that big over of ten or 11, it may just be a five or a six," Cummins added. After they were set 308 for win, Pakistan scored steadily but Australia held their nerve and took wickets at regular intervals. An eighth-wicket stand between Sarfaraz and Wahab Riaz, who scored 45 from just 39 balls, made it nervy for the defending champions until the last three wickets fell for just two runs - securing a third victory at the World Cup. "It goes to show that everyone can bat these days. It was a bit closer than we would have liked, so it was good to get those couple of wickets and finish it off. We gave them a bit too much width and suddenly they were back in the game, it's a good lesson to learn," Cummins said. Cummins and his strike partner Starc have 18 wickets between them in the tournament while the rest of the team have a combined 12. Australia set a target of 307 on the back of a 146-run opening partnership between Warner (107) and Finch (82). Warner scored his first-century post his one-year international ban for ball-tampering. "We were so pumped for him, he was really open and honest after the Oval game. He was playing more timid than normal but we saw his mindset change from the start here,'' he said. "I think if you look over the transition of his career, he's become more measured in his approach. His energy out in the middle is still an example, the way you see him sprinting hard for singles and bouncing down the wicket. He looks really sharp in this tournament," Cummins said.

World Cup: Pat Cummins' silent workhorse in Australia's squad, while others hog limelight

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