<p>Former India opener Aakash Chopra has said that based on his current form,&nbsp;Virat Kohli doesn’t belong to Fab Four anymore, a quartet that includes Joe Root, Kane Williamson and Steve Smith. These stalwarts have excelled in Tests, particularly in the past decade.&nbsp;However, with Virat going through a lean patch since 2020, which also saw a dip in his average under 50 for the first time in many years, Aakash feels the former India captain is running behind.</p>

<p>As things stand, Kane Williamson is sidelined due to a leg injury he suffered in IPL 2023 opener against Chennai Super Kings, while both Root and Smith are playing in the Ashes – wherein both have notched a hundred in two Tests played. Virat, on the other hand, is preparing for the West Indies series, having last scored a hundred in Tests in March early this year.</p>

<p>Since 2020, Virat has not been among runs, let alone hitting centuries at will the way he used to do before. During India’s first Pink-Ball Test against Bangladesh in 2019, Virat hit a hundred at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, and it took&nbsp;the chase maestro around three years to complete his next three-digit score in international cricket.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-wont-travel-pakistan-minister-puts-men-in-greens-participation-in-odi-wc-under-cloud-of-doubt-613528">'Pak won't travel...:' Pakistan minister puts Men In Green's participation in ODI WC under cloud of doubt</a></p>

<p>Since completing that hundred in November 2019, Virat averages nearly 26 in Tests and has looked out of touch on most occasions.</p>

<p>Speaking on the same lines on his YouTube channel, Aakash said much like Kohli, David Warner, a veteran batter, is also going through the same patch,&nbsp;having attained a poor record against England’s Stuart Broad, getting out to him for the record 17th time.</p>

<p>Chopra said Virat, in current form, is out of Fab 4; as a result, it is now just Fab 3.</p>

<p>“Kane and Joe Root, no question about it. Steve Smith, averaging 50 with six hundreds, no question about him. But David Warner and Virat Kohli, at this point in time, are not a part of Fab 4. There’s no Fab 4 right now, there’s Fab 3," Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel.</p>

<h2>Babar Azam not far from entering the Fab 4 group: Chopra</h2>

<p>Aakash further opined that the way Babar Azam is going about scoring runs on a consistent basis in international cricket, the time is not far when he would be considered among the top four batters in all formats.</p>

<p>“You might think of adding Babar Azam’s name in there. But while there’s no doubt that he has scored runs in Test cricket, I don’t think he is part of Fab 4 at the moment. I’m only talking about Test matches here," Aakash added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


Former India opener Aakash Chopra has said that based on his current form, Virat Kohli doesn’t belong to Fab Four anymore, a quartet that includes Joe Root, Kane Williamson and Steve Smith.

Former India opener Aakash Chopra has said that based on his current form, Virat Kohli doesn’t belong to Fab Four anymore, a quartet that includes Joe Root, Kane Williamson and Steve Smith. These stalwarts have excelled in Tests, particularly in the past decade. However, with Virat going through a lean patch since 2020, which also saw a dip in his average under 50 for the first time in many years, Aakash feels the former India captain is running behind. As things stand, Kane Williamson is sidelined due to a leg injury he suffered in IPL 2023 opener against Chennai Super Kings, while both Root and Smith are playing in the Ashes – wherein both have notched a hundred in two Tests played. Virat, on the other hand, is preparing for the West Indies series, having last scored a hundred in Tests in March early this year. Since 2020, Virat has not been among runs, let alone hitting centuries at will the way he used to do before. During India’s first Pink-Ball Test against Bangladesh in 2019, Virat hit a hundred at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, and it took the chase maestro around three years to complete his next three-digit score in international cricket. ALSO READ: 'Pak won't travel...:' Pakistan minister puts Men In Green's participation in ODI WC under cloud of doubt Since completing that hundred in November 2019, Virat averages nearly 26 in Tests and has looked out of touch on most occasions. Speaking on the same lines on his YouTube channel, Aakash said much like Kohli, David Warner, a veteran batter, is also going through the same patch, having attained a poor record against England’s Stuart Broad, getting out to him for the record 17th time. Chopra said Virat, in current form, is out of Fab 4; as a result, it is now just Fab 3. “Kane and Joe Root, no question about it. Steve Smith, averaging 50 with six hundreds, no question about him. But David Warner and Virat Kohli, at this point in time, are not a part of Fab 4. There’s no Fab 4 right now, there’s Fab 3," Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel. Babar Azam not far from entering the Fab 4 group: Chopra Aakash further opined that the way Babar Azam is going about scoring runs on a consistent basis in international cricket, the time is not far when he would be considered among the top four batters in all formats. “You might think of adding Babar Azam’s name in there. But while there’s no doubt that he has scored runs in Test cricket, I don’t think he is part of Fab 4 at the moment. I’m only talking about Test matches here," Aakash added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

At this point, Virat Kohli is not part of Fab Four anymore: Aakash Chopra's huge claim on ex-India captain

<p>On Thursday (July 06), Steve Smith became the 15th Australian and 75th player overall to enter the 100-Test club during Day 1 of the third Ashes Test, at Leeds, Headingley. Smith, who started as a leg-spinner, is one of the legends of the modern-day game who has redefined his career as one of the greatest batters -- especially in the purest format of the game. He has over 9,000 runs (9,113) in whites at an average of nearly 60 with 32 hundreds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Smith has been Australia's go-to-batter over the years and played an integral role in their success in the longest format. With him achieving the 100-Test milestone, Australian captain Pat Cummins lauded Smith during the coin toss of the third Ashes Test in Headingley.&nbsp;"For Smith, his 100th game. Huge, the standard he's set, averaging almost 60 is incredible," Cummins said after Ben Stokes-led England opted to bowl first in the third Test.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stop-concentrating-on-india-vs-pakistan-shaheen-afridi-says-winning-cwc23-is-babar-cos-main-aim-612604">Stop concentrating on India vs Pakistan: Shaheen Afridi says winning CWC'23 is Babar &amp; Co's main aim</a></strong></p>

<p>Smith has been in good form in the ongoing English summer. He made a brisk 121 versus India in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) -- where Cummins &amp; Co. won by 209 runs -- and while he struggled in the Ashes 2023 opener, he returned with 110 and 34 in the second Test at Lord's. As Australia have a 2-0 lead and is on the verge of winning their first away Ashes since 2001, Smith will be desperate to score a daddy hundred in the ongoing third Test and help his side retain the urn with an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After being asked to bat first, Australia had a tough start in the third Test. While David Warner departed for 4, Usman Khawaja's stumps were rattled by Mark Wood who also dismissed Marnus Labuschagne. Australia is now dependent on Smith to keep the scoreboard moving and take his side out of troubled waters.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


On Thursday (July 06), Steve Smith became the 15th Australian and 75th player overall to enter the 100-Test club during Day 1 of the third Ashes Test, at Leeds, Headingley.

On Thursday (July 06), Steve Smith became the 15th Australian and 75th player overall to enter the 100-Test club during Day 1 of the third Ashes Test, at Leeds, Headingley. Smith, who started as a leg-spinner, is one of the legends of the modern-day game who has redefined his career as one of the greatest batters -- especially in the purest format of the game. He has over 9,000 runs (9,113) in whites at an average of nearly 60 with 32 hundreds. Smith has been Australia's go-to-batter over the years and played an integral role in their success in the longest format. With him achieving the 100-Test milestone, Australian captain Pat Cummins lauded Smith during the coin toss of the third Ashes Test in Headingley. "For Smith, his 100th game. Huge, the standard he's set, averaging almost 60 is incredible," Cummins said after Ben Stokes-led England opted to bowl first in the third Test. Also Read: Stop concentrating on India vs Pakistan: Shaheen Afridi says winning CWC'23 is Babar & Co's main aim Smith has been in good form in the ongoing English summer. He made a brisk 121 versus India in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) -- where Cummins & Co. won by 209 runs -- and while he struggled in the Ashes 2023 opener, he returned with 110 and 34 in the second Test at Lord's. As Australia have a 2-0 lead and is on the verge of winning their first away Ashes since 2001, Smith will be desperate to score a daddy hundred in the ongoing third Test and help his side retain the urn with an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. After being asked to bat first, Australia had a tough start in the third Test. While David Warner departed for 4, Usman Khawaja's stumps were rattled by Mark Wood who also dismissed Marnus Labuschagne. Australia is now dependent on Smith to keep the scoreboard moving and take his side out of troubled waters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023 | He has set high standard: Aussie captain Pat Cummins lauds Steve Smith for 100th Test milestone

<p>Ahead of the third Ashes Test, at Leeds, former Australia captain Ricky Ponting lavished huge praise on Steve Smith, who is gearing up for his 100th Test match when Australia and England lock horns in the third Test, at Leeds, Headingley, and will become the 14th Australian to reach three-figure Test appearances. Easily one of the greatest Test batters of current times, and a modern-day great, Smith has been Australia's go-to-batter in whites. Thus, Ponting made a big claim as he feels Smith is Australia's second-greatest batter after Don Bradman.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'If it all ended tomorrow, Steve Smith would be Australia's second-greatest batter after Bradman'</strong></h2>

<p>"If it all ended tomorrow, he'd be the second-greatest batsman Australia have produced after Don Bradman. Statistically, you cannot argue with that. He's achieving things so quickly. Even at Lord's, he became the second-fastest in history to reach 9,000 Test runs," Ponting said while speaking with Nasser Hussain for the Daily Mail.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-england-likely-to-replace-ollie-pope-with-harry-brook-at-no3-as-headingley-gets-ready-for-third-test-612105">Ashes 2023: England likely to replace Pope with THIS batter at No.3 as Headingley gets ready for third Test</a></strong></p>

<p>The former Aussie skipper added, "Quickest to 32 Test hundreds, innings-wise. It doesn't look as though he's slowing down. He has been a bit guarded about how long he will go on for, which is a bit strange to me. He jokes about not being able to sleep. With the number of hundreds he scores, he should be able to sleep pretty easily, I reckon."</p>

<p>Smith started his career as a leg spinner but soon became a handy batter and is now regarded highly in the Test format. In 99 Tests, the right-hander has&nbsp;9,113 runs at an average of&nbsp;59.56 with 32 hundreds and 37 half-centuries. He was awarded the ICC Test Player of the Decade in December 2020. He continues to score heaps of runs and slammed a century in Australia's 209-run win over India in the WTC final.</p>

<p>In the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, Smith returned as the Player-of-the-Match for his 110 in the first innings. He will be eager to score another triple-figure knock in the upcoming third Ashes Test with Pat Cummins &amp; Co. leading the series 2-0.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Ahead of the third Ashes Test, at Leeds, former Australia captain Ricky Ponting lavished huge praise on Steve Smith, who is gearing up for his 100th Test match when Australia and England lock horns in the third Test, at Leeds, Headingley, and will become the 14th Australian to reach three-figure Test appearances.

Ahead of the third Ashes Test, at Leeds, former Australia captain Ricky Ponting lavished huge praise on Steve Smith, who is gearing up for his 100th Test match when Australia and England lock horns in the third Test, at Leeds, Headingley, and will become the 14th Australian to reach three-figure Test appearances. Easily one of the greatest Test batters of current times, and a modern-day great, Smith has been Australia's go-to-batter in whites. Thus, Ponting made a big claim as he feels Smith is Australia's second-greatest batter after Don Bradman. 'If it all ended tomorrow, Steve Smith would be Australia's second-greatest batter after Bradman' "If it all ended tomorrow, he'd be the second-greatest batsman Australia have produced after Don Bradman. Statistically, you cannot argue with that. He's achieving things so quickly. Even at Lord's, he became the second-fastest in history to reach 9,000 Test runs," Ponting said while speaking with Nasser Hussain for the Daily Mail. Also Read: Ashes 2023: England likely to replace Pope with THIS batter at No.3 as Headingley gets ready for third Test The former Aussie skipper added, "Quickest to 32 Test hundreds, innings-wise. It doesn't look as though he's slowing down. He has been a bit guarded about how long he will go on for, which is a bit strange to me. He jokes about not being able to sleep. With the number of hundreds he scores, he should be able to sleep pretty easily, I reckon." Smith started his career as a leg spinner but soon became a handy batter and is now regarded highly in the Test format. In 99 Tests, the right-hander has 9,113 runs at an average of 59.56 with 32 hundreds and 37 half-centuries. He was awarded the ICC Test Player of the Decade in December 2020. He continues to score heaps of runs and slammed a century in Australia's 209-run win over India in the WTC final. In the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, Smith returned as the Player-of-the-Match for his 110 in the first innings. He will be eager to score another triple-figure knock in the upcoming third Ashes Test with Pat Cummins & Co. leading the series 2-0. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Steve Smith is the second-greatest batter Australia produced after Don Bradman, feels Ricky Ponting

<p>After an ordinary opening day, England bounced back in style on Day 2 of the Lord's Test versus Australia. Australia commenced the second day's play at 339 for 5 and soon got wrapped up for 416 with Steve Smith top-scoring with a fine 110. England started on a strong note and ended the day's play at 278 for 4, scoring at 4.56 per over, with opener Ben Duckett (98) leading the charge though he was unlucky to miss&nbsp;his century.</p>

<p>At 188/1, England were looking to end the day strongly but lost three wickets by the end of proceedings on Thursday (June 29) but will be satisfied with their comeback. After Day 2, former England captain Andrew Strauss opined on England's fightback. He feels the home side are now in a 'very strong position' but 'not ahead of the&nbsp;game'.</p>

<p>“It was all Australia yesterday and all England today. England are now in a very strong position, they are not ahead of the game but they have certainly come roaring back. Australia were sloppy, lacked a bit of discipline with their no-balls, and England got the balance right. They attacked but without too much risk. I thought it was an excellent day for them," said Strauss.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-nathan-lyons-injury-doesnt-look-good-its-a-big-loss-for-us-says-steve-smith-610348">Ashes 2023: 'Nathan Lyon's injury doesn't look good, it's a big loss for us,' says Steve Smith</a></strong></p>

<p>Australia didn't start well with the ball after missing out on a golden chance to post anything over 500 early in the day. They were sloppy on the field and bowled a lot of no-balls. Cameron Green got rid of Joe Root but had overstepped to give him a lifeline before the former England skipper departed for 10.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia's biggest worry will be Nathan Lyon's fitness as the veteran off-spinner, playing his 100th consecutive Test, got injured while fielding and limped off the field. For England, Harry Brook and captain Ben Stokes will resume play on Day 3 and hope to take England beyond Australia's 416.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


After an ordinary opening day, England bounced back in style on Day 2 of the Lord's Test versus Australia. Australia commenced the second day's play at 339 for 5 and soon got wrapped up for 416 with Steve Smith top-scoring with a fine 110.

After an ordinary opening day, England bounced back in style on Day 2 of the Lord's Test versus Australia. Australia commenced the second day's play at 339 for 5 and soon got wrapped up for 416 with Steve Smith top-scoring with a fine 110. England started on a strong note and ended the day's play at 278 for 4, scoring at 4.56 per over, with opener Ben Duckett (98) leading the charge though he was unlucky to miss his century. At 188/1, England were looking to end the day strongly but lost three wickets by the end of proceedings on Thursday (June 29) but will be satisfied with their comeback. After Day 2, former England captain Andrew Strauss opined on England's fightback. He feels the home side are now in a 'very strong position' but 'not ahead of the game'. “It was all Australia yesterday and all England today. England are now in a very strong position, they are not ahead of the game but they have certainly come roaring back. Australia were sloppy, lacked a bit of discipline with their no-balls, and England got the balance right. They attacked but without too much risk. I thought it was an excellent day for them," said Strauss. Also Read: Ashes 2023: 'Nathan Lyon's injury doesn't look good, it's a big loss for us,' says Steve Smith Australia didn't start well with the ball after missing out on a golden chance to post anything over 500 early in the day. They were sloppy on the field and bowled a lot of no-balls. Cameron Green got rid of Joe Root but had overstepped to give him a lifeline before the former England skipper departed for 10. Australia's biggest worry will be Nathan Lyon's fitness as the veteran off-spinner, playing his 100th consecutive Test, got injured while fielding and limped off the field. For England, Harry Brook and captain Ben Stokes will resume play on Day 3 and hope to take England beyond Australia's 416. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Ashes 2023: 'Hosts not ahead but...': Former England captain opines on Day 2's proceedings at Lord's

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidtFGl7s6xS341" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Australia dealt with an injury blow on day two of the ongoing second Ashes Test at Lord’s, as spinner Nathan Lyon suffered a suspected calf injury and was helped off the field, taking no further part in the game. While official word on the nature of his injury is yet to be out, batting legend Steve Smith said it doesn’t look good and that his absence will hurt Australia in this Test.</p>

<p>It was after tea on day two when Lyon, while attempting to take a catch at fine leg, got injured. Playing his 100th consecutive Test – being the first bowler in Test history to achieve this feat, Lyon is feared to be out of action for an extended period.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-england-counter-attack-on-day-2-as-duckett-brook-lead-charge-aussies-handed-lyon-injury-blow-610274">Ashes 2023: England counter attack on Day 2 as Duckett, Brook lead charge; Lyon injury blow to Aussies</a></p>

<p>Smith, who scored a brilliant hundred in the first innings – his 32nd overall in this format, shared some insights on what’s happening with Lyon.</p>

<p>After the day’s play, Smith told the media, "I haven't been up in the sheds yet, but obviously it didn't look good. It doesn't look ideal for the rest of the game," Steve Smith told reporters at the end of the day's play. "I'm not sure how he actually is. But obviously, if he's no good, it's a big loss for us.</p>

<p>"He's in his 100th consecutive Test match, which I know he was really looking forward to taking part in and having a role in as well. Fingers crossed he's OK, but it didn't look good," Smith added.</p>

<h2>Oz changed tactics after losing Lyon</h2>

<p>Australia went for plan B right after Nathan Lyon left the field – opting to go short for Harry Brook and Ben Stokes. The ploy seemed to work a bit as a couple of chances were created, but it remains to be seen, for how long Australia sticks to this.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his absence, Pat Cummins even went for Travis Head and Smith as part-time options, but it was the pace battery that bowled the majority of over during the fag end.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, England batter Ben Duckett, who fell two shy of his maiden Ashes hundred at Lord’s, also sounded worried for Lyon. He said knowing what he brings to the table, Lyon would have been useful on this track in the fourth innings.</p>

<p>"It's a huge shame, and I really hope it's not too bad for him. You never want to see anyone go down with an injury. We all wish him the best," said Ben Duckett. "He was going to play a massive part in that fourth innings, he's such a good bowler. It will be interesting to see how they go about it.</p>

<p>"If they keep going bumpers with all four bowlers, I think they'll be quite tired by the end of it, especially with back-to-back Tests. Travis bowled all right tonight, so maybe he will bowl a bit," Duckett added.</p>

<p>As things stand, England are 278 for four at stumps on day two.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


Australia dealt with an injury blow on day two of the ongoing second Ashes Test at Lord’s, as spinner Nathan Lyon suffered a suspected calf injury and was helped off the field, taking no further part in the game.

Australia dealt with an injury blow on day two of the ongoing second Ashes Test at Lord’s, as spinner Nathan Lyon suffered a suspected calf injury and was helped off the field, taking no further part in the game. While official word on the nature of his injury is yet to be out, batting legend Steve Smith said it doesn’t look good and that his absence will hurt Australia in this Test. It was after tea on day two when Lyon, while attempting to take a catch at fine leg, got injured. Playing his 100th consecutive Test – being the first bowler in Test history to achieve this feat, Lyon is feared to be out of action for an extended period. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023: England counter attack on Day 2 as Duckett, Brook lead charge; Lyon injury blow to Aussies Smith, who scored a brilliant hundred in the first innings – his 32nd overall in this format, shared some insights on what’s happening with Lyon. After the day’s play, Smith told the media, "I haven't been up in the sheds yet, but obviously it didn't look good. It doesn't look ideal for the rest of the game," Steve Smith told reporters at the end of the day's play. "I'm not sure how he actually is. But obviously, if he's no good, it's a big loss for us. "He's in his 100th consecutive Test match, which I know he was really looking forward to taking part in and having a role in as well. Fingers crossed he's OK, but it didn't look good," Smith added. Oz changed tactics after losing Lyon Australia went for plan B right after Nathan Lyon left the field – opting to go short for Harry Brook and Ben Stokes. The ploy seemed to work a bit as a couple of chances were created, but it remains to be seen, for how long Australia sticks to this. In his absence, Pat Cummins even went for Travis Head and Smith as part-time options, but it was the pace battery that bowled the majority of over during the fag end. Meanwhile, England batter Ben Duckett, who fell two shy of his maiden Ashes hundred at Lord’s, also sounded worried for Lyon. He said knowing what he brings to the table, Lyon would have been useful on this track in the fourth innings. "It's a huge shame, and I really hope it's not too bad for him. You never want to see anyone go down with an injury. We all wish him the best," said Ben Duckett. "He was going to play a massive part in that fourth innings, he's such a good bowler. It will be interesting to see how they go about it. "If they keep going bumpers with all four bowlers, I think they'll be quite tired by the end of it, especially with back-to-back Tests. Travis bowled all right tonight, so maybe he will bowl a bit," Duckett added. As things stand, England are 278 for four at stumps on day two. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes 2023: 'Nathan Lyon's injury doesn't look good, it's a big loss for us,' says Steve Smith

<p>Star batsman Steve Smith's unbeaten 85 was the centrepiece of Australia's impressive 339-5 on the opening day of the second Test against England at Lord's on Wednesday.</p>

<p>But off-spinner Joe Root, better known as the number one-ranked batsman in Test cricket, took two wickets in four balls late in the day to check the progress of Ashes-holders Australia, 1-0 up in the five-match series after a thrilling two-wicket win at Edgbaston last week.</p>

<p>Australia were in command at 316-3, despite being sent into bat by England captain Ben Stokes in overcast conditions and on a green tinged-pitch that promised to aid his five-strong pace attack.</p>

<p>But dashing left-hander Travis Head, scoring at better than a run-a-ball, then charged down the pitch only to be beaten by a sharply turning Root delivery with Jonny Bairstow, whose wicketkeeping had proved fallible in Birmingham, completing an excellent stumping.</p>

<p>Head was out for 77 following a stand of 118 with Smith where England were given a taste of their own 'Bazball' medicine.</p>

<p>But three balls later, Australia's 316-4 became 316-5 when all-rounder Cameron Green fell for a duck, slicing Root to James Anderson at mid-off.</p>

<p>At stumps Root, the only spinner in the attack after England dropped Moeen Ali, had figures of 2-19 from eight overs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fast bowler Josh Tongue, recalled in place of Moeen, removed Australia left-handed openers Usman Khawaja and David Warner, who made a valuable 66, in a return of 2-88 in 18 overs.</p>

<p>But the day belonged to Australia, with No 3 Marnus Labuschagne, who made a useful 47, telling Sky Sports: "You're going to take that (total) when you get sent in on a wicket that we thought had a fair bit in it."</p>

<p>The match was briefly halted before the second over when two Just Stop Oil protesters ran out of the Grandstand and onto the outfield, sprinkling the environmental pressure group's trademark orange powder on the square but not on the pitch.</p>

<p>Bairstow grabbed one of the demonstrators and carried them off the playing surface, with the other apprehended by stewards.</p>

<p>A third demonstrator was tackled before making it onto the outfield, with the police making three arrests.</p>

<h2><strong>Pope injury scare</strong></h2>

<p>England's aggressive approach had come under scrutiny in Birmingham, but missing several chances was a bigger factor in their defeat.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, Stuart Broad looked to have dismissed Warner, then on 20, yet again in an Ashes clash, only for fourth slip Ollie Pope, who later went off injured with a shoulder injury, to drop a two-handed catch.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Warner cashed in with a 66-ball fifty completed when he pulled Tongue, in just his second Test, for six.</p>

<p>But off what became the last ball before lunch Tongue bowled Khawaja, playing no shot, to end a stand of 73.</p>

<p>Warner also fell to Tongue, bowled between bat and pad by a ball that cut back sharply off the pitch.</p>

<p>England for all Australia's playing and missing, did not help themselves by giving away 36 runs in extras, including 12 no-balls.</p>

<p>Smith stuck Stuart Broad through the covers for two fours off successive balls then successfully overturned a caught-behind decision off the next delivery on his way to a 102-ball fifty.</p>

<p>Stokes, who has been troubled by a longstanding knee injury, brought himself on but only bowled three wicketless overs.</p>

<p>Smith and Labuschagne, until recently the world's two top-ranked Test batsmen, had managed just 35 runs between them across four innings at Edgbaston.</p>

<p>But on Wednesday their century partnership was ended when Labuschagne was caught behind off an excellent delivery from Ollie Robinson to leave Australia 198-3.</p>


Star batsman Steve Smith's unbeaten 85 was the centrepiece of Australia's impressive 339-5 on the opening day of the second Test against England at Lord's on Wednesday.

Star batsman Steve Smith's unbeaten 85 was the centrepiece of Australia's impressive 339-5 on the opening day of the second Test against England at Lord's on Wednesday. But off-spinner Joe Root, better known as the number one-ranked batsman in Test cricket, took two wickets in four balls late in the day to check the progress of Ashes-holders Australia, 1-0 up in the five-match series after a thrilling two-wicket win at Edgbaston last week. Australia were in command at 316-3, despite being sent into bat by England captain Ben Stokes in overcast conditions and on a green tinged-pitch that promised to aid his five-strong pace attack. But dashing left-hander Travis Head, scoring at better than a run-a-ball, then charged down the pitch only to be beaten by a sharply turning Root delivery with Jonny Bairstow, whose wicketkeeping had proved fallible in Birmingham, completing an excellent stumping. Head was out for 77 following a stand of 118 with Smith where England were given a taste of their own 'Bazball' medicine. But three balls later, Australia's 316-4 became 316-5 when all-rounder Cameron Green fell for a duck, slicing Root to James Anderson at mid-off. At stumps Root, the only spinner in the attack after England dropped Moeen Ali, had figures of 2-19 from eight overs. Fast bowler Josh Tongue, recalled in place of Moeen, removed Australia left-handed openers Usman Khawaja and David Warner, who made a valuable 66, in a return of 2-88 in 18 overs. But the day belonged to Australia, with No 3 Marnus Labuschagne, who made a useful 47, telling Sky Sports: "You're going to take that (total) when you get sent in on a wicket that we thought had a fair bit in it." The match was briefly halted before the second over when two Just Stop Oil protesters ran out of the Grandstand and onto the outfield, sprinkling the environmental pressure group's trademark orange powder on the square but not on the pitch. Bairstow grabbed one of the demonstrators and carried them off the playing surface, with the other apprehended by stewards. A third demonstrator was tackled before making it onto the outfield, with the police making three arrests. Pope injury scare England's aggressive approach had come under scrutiny in Birmingham, but missing several chances was a bigger factor in their defeat. On Wednesday, Stuart Broad looked to have dismissed Warner, then on 20, yet again in an Ashes clash, only for fourth slip Ollie Pope, who later went off injured with a shoulder injury, to drop a two-handed catch. Warner cashed in with a 66-ball fifty completed when he pulled Tongue, in just his second Test, for six. But off what became the last ball before lunch Tongue bowled Khawaja, playing no shot, to end a stand of 73. Warner also fell to Tongue, bowled between bat and pad by a ball that cut back sharply off the pitch. England for all Australia's playing and missing, did not help themselves by giving away 36 runs in extras, including 12 no-balls. Smith stuck Stuart Broad through the covers for two fours off successive balls then successfully overturned a caught-behind decision off the next delivery on his way to a 102-ball fifty. Stokes, who has been troubled by a longstanding knee injury, brought himself on but only bowled three wicketless overs. Smith and Labuschagne, until recently the world's two top-ranked Test batsmen, had managed just 35 runs between them across four innings at Edgbaston. But on Wednesday their century partnership was ended when Labuschagne was caught behind off an excellent delivery from Ollie Robinson to leave Australia 198-3.

Smith stars for Australia before Root double revives England in 2nd Test

<p>Australia’s Steve Smith has added another feather to his already impressive cap as the star player scored yet another ton in the ongoing Ashes 2023 on Thursday, June 29. Playing at an overnight score of an unbeaten 85, Smith reached his 32nd Test ton as he leapfrogged India skipper Rohit Sharma for most international hundreds. Smith now has 44 international tons, one more than Rohit (43 hundreds). Scoring the ton at Lord’s also saw him become the fastest player to score 32 hundreds in terms of innings as well.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">32nd Test hundred for Steve Smith 💯<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC25?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC25</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvAUS</a> 📝: <a href="https://t.co/liWqlPCKqn">https://t.co/liWqlPCKqn</a> <a href="https://t.co/wHXOQByoIQ">pic.twitter.com/wHXOQByoIQ</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1674368992465629185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Smith on fire</strong></h2>

<p>Smith in the first hour of Day 2 bought up his 32nd ton having scored a four on the fourth ball of the 92nd over. The former Aussie captain along with Pat Cummins was seen at his fluent best, having missed&nbsp;entertaining the crowd at Edgbaston. The hundred also saw him go level with Steve Waugh for most hundreds by an Australian. Currently, only Ricky Ponting with 41 has reached the triple-figure mark on more occasions than him.</p>

<p>In terms of innings, Smith is the fastest to reach 32 hundreds, having taken only 174 innings, two less than Ponting while Sachin Tendulkar needed 179 innings to reach the tally.</p>

<h2><strong>Least Innings taken for 32 Test 100s</strong></h2>

<p>174 - Steve Smith*</p>

<p>176 - Ricky Ponting</p>

<p>179 - Sachin Tendulkar</p>

<h2><strong>Most Test hundreds for active Test players</strong></h2>

<p>Smith, 34, currently holds the record for most Test hundreds by an active player with 32 tons as he only gets better. In the impressive tally, he is above Indian great Virat Kohli, England batter Joe Root and Kane Williamson. In terms of Ashes tons, only Sir Donald Bradman has scored more in the age-old rivalry. Smith currently has 12 Ashes hundreds, seven shy of Bradman’s tally of 19 tons.</p>

<h2>Australia on the front foot</h2>

<p>Having been asked to bat in the second Test, the visitors have made a positive start to the contest with them scoring 416 in their first innings. Smith, top scored with 110 while David Warner (66) also impressed on Day 1. The team was bowled out in the first session of Day 2 as skipper Cummins remained unbeaten on 22.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Australia’s Steve Smith has added another feather to his already impressive cap as the star player scored yet another ton in the ongoing Ashes 2023 on Thursday, June 29.

Australia’s Steve Smith has added another feather to his already impressive cap as the star player scored yet another ton in the ongoing Ashes 2023 on Thursday, June 29. Playing at an overnight score of an unbeaten 85, Smith reached his 32nd Test ton as he leapfrogged India skipper Rohit Sharma for most international hundreds. Smith now has 44 international tons, one more than Rohit (43 hundreds). Scoring the ton at Lord’s also saw him become the fastest player to score 32 hundreds in terms of innings as well. 32nd Test hundred for Steve Smith 💯#WTC25 | #ENGvAUS 📝: https://t.co/liWqlPCKqn pic.twitter.com/wHXOQByoIQ — ICC (@ICC) June 29, 2023 × Smith on fire Smith in the first hour of Day 2 bought up his 32nd ton having scored a four on the fourth ball of the 92nd over. The former Aussie captain along with Pat Cummins was seen at his fluent best, having missed entertaining the crowd at Edgbaston. The hundred also saw him go level with Steve Waugh for most hundreds by an Australian. Currently, only Ricky Ponting with 41 has reached the triple-figure mark on more occasions than him. In terms of innings, Smith is the fastest to reach 32 hundreds, having taken only 174 innings, two less than Ponting while Sachin Tendulkar needed 179 innings to reach the tally. Least Innings taken for 32 Test 100s 174 - Steve Smith* 176 - Ricky Ponting 179 - Sachin Tendulkar Most Test hundreds for active Test players Smith, 34, currently holds the record for most Test hundreds by an active player with 32 tons as he only gets better. In the impressive tally, he is above Indian great Virat Kohli, England batter Joe Root and Kane Williamson. In terms of Ashes tons, only Sir Donald Bradman has scored more in the age-old rivalry. Smith currently has 12 Ashes hundreds, seven shy of Bradman’s tally of 19 tons. Australia on the front foot Having been asked to bat in the second Test, the visitors have made a positive start to the contest with them scoring 416 in their first innings. Smith, top scored with 110 while David Warner (66) also impressed on Day 1. The team was bowled out in the first session of Day 2 as skipper Cummins remained unbeaten on 22. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023: Steve Smith leapfrogs Rohit Sharma in THIS tally as Aussie star shines with another ton at Lord's

<p>England won the toss and opted to bowl first on Day 1 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, on Wednesday (June 28), in overcast conditions on a track favourable for bowling. However, they ended the day picking five wickets as Australia managed 339 runs&nbsp;courtesy of fifties from David Warner, Travis Head and Steve Smith (85 not out). After the end of the opening day, former England captain Michael Vaughan expressed concern for Ben Stokes &amp; Co. as hosts trail the five-match series 1-0 after losing the series opener, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, by two wickets.</p>

<p>"England can get back into it but I worry about it. They are going to have to be sharper in the field, I will be intrigued to see how they cope," Vaughan said on BBC's Test Match Special.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-nathan-lyon-scripts-history-becomes-first-bowler-to-play-100-successive-tests-609680">Ashes 2023: Nathan Lyon scripts history, becomes first bowler to play 100 successive Tests</a></strong></p>

<p>"I do think this pitch will get harder over the next few days. I worry about England. It's very tough at this stage. They switched off at Edgbaston and today, they haven't been switched on at the key moments," Vaughan further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>England were sloppy on the field as they dropped chances and Australia made them pay heavily with attacking knocks from Warner (66 off 88), Head (77 off 73) whereas Smith remains unbeaten on 85 and looks set for a daddy hundred. Debutant Josh Tongue (2 for 88) looked good whereas Joe Root picked two wickets in an over towards the end of Day 1 otherwise Australia had been in a more commanding position at the time of stumps.&nbsp;</p>

<p>England will be desperate to dismiss the Australian line-up for less than 400 but it looks an improbable task at the moment. For Australia, they will target anything over 450 with Smith well settled in the middle.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


England won the toss and opted to bowl first on Day 1 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, on Wednesday (June 28), in overcast conditions on a track favourable for bowling.

England won the toss and opted to bowl first on Day 1 of the second Ashes Test, at Lord's, on Wednesday (June 28), in overcast conditions on a track favourable for bowling. However, they ended the day picking five wickets as Australia managed 339 runs courtesy of fifties from David Warner, Travis Head and Steve Smith (85 not out). After the end of the opening day, former England captain Michael Vaughan expressed concern for Ben Stokes & Co. as hosts trail the five-match series 1-0 after losing the series opener, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, by two wickets. "England can get back into it but I worry about it. They are going to have to be sharper in the field, I will be intrigued to see how they cope," Vaughan said on BBC's Test Match Special. Also Read: Ashes 2023: Nathan Lyon scripts history, becomes first bowler to play 100 successive Tests "I do think this pitch will get harder over the next few days. I worry about England. It's very tough at this stage. They switched off at Edgbaston and today, they haven't been switched on at the key moments," Vaughan further added. England were sloppy on the field as they dropped chances and Australia made them pay heavily with attacking knocks from Warner (66 off 88), Head (77 off 73) whereas Smith remains unbeaten on 85 and looks set for a daddy hundred. Debutant Josh Tongue (2 for 88) looked good whereas Joe Root picked two wickets in an over towards the end of Day 1 otherwise Australia had been in a more commanding position at the time of stumps. England will be desperate to dismiss the Australian line-up for less than 400 but it looks an improbable task at the moment. For Australia, they will target anything over 450 with Smith well settled in the middle. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'I worry about England, they need to be...': Vaughan warns Ben Stokes & Co. after Day 1 of Lord's Test

<p>The second of the five Ashes Tests between England and Australia is set to begin on Wednesday, June 28 at Lord's in London. The visitors are already 1-0 up in the series after winning the opening Test in Edgbaston. The England tour, however, still has many days left and former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie thinks Kangaroo skipper Pat Cummins could take a rest towards the end of the tour.</p>

<p>Gillespie, in a chat with media outlet Hindustan Times, said that Australia have enough depth in the bowling which could help Cummins take a breather. The former pacer, however, said that Cummins' rest would depend on 'how many overs Cameron Green bowls.'</p>

<p>"I wouldn’t discount Cummins rotating himself, particularly at the backend of the series where there are back-to-back Tests," said Gillespie on Cummins' workload.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-ben-stokes-opines-on-icec-report-says-we-need-to-learn-from-past-mistakes-609367">Ben Stokes opines on ICEC report, says 'we need to learn from past mistakes'</a></p>

<p>Notably, Cummins had also led Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India just before the start of the Ashes. As for the captaincy options, Gillespie pointed out Steve Smith and Alex Carey as Cummins' potential replacement. Smith was, in fact, Australia's skipper for a long time for being removed.</p>

<p>"They know they've got Steve Smith who is more than capable of leading, or Alex Carey," said Gillespie.</p>

<p>The former Aussie, however, added that while Australia have depth in bowling department, it depends on Cameron Green's workload as the fourth seamer to allow Cummins to take some rest.</p>

<p>"They have got enough depth in the bowling. The number of overs Cameron Green bowls is going to have a big impact. Because, if he bowls as few overs as he did in the first Test (eight), then it will put a bigger workload on Cummins and the other bowlers," said Gillespie.</p>

<p>With ICC ODI World Cup just about a 100 days away, Australia would definitely want their skipper to be fully fit as they try to win their first Ashes in England in over 20 years.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The second of the five Ashes Tests between England and Australia is set to begin on Wednesday, June 28 at Lord's in London. The visitors are already 1-0 up in the series after winning the opening Test in Edgbaston.

The second of the five Ashes Tests between England and Australia is set to begin on Wednesday, June 28 at Lord's in London. The visitors are already 1-0 up in the series after winning the opening Test in Edgbaston. The England tour, however, still has many days left and former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie thinks Kangaroo skipper Pat Cummins could take a rest towards the end of the tour. Gillespie, in a chat with media outlet Hindustan Times, said that Australia have enough depth in the bowling which could help Cummins take a breather. The former pacer, however, said that Cummins' rest would depend on 'how many overs Cameron Green bowls.' "I wouldn’t discount Cummins rotating himself, particularly at the backend of the series where there are back-to-back Tests," said Gillespie on Cummins' workload. Also Read: Ben Stokes opines on ICEC report, says 'we need to learn from past mistakes' Notably, Cummins had also led Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India just before the start of the Ashes. As for the captaincy options, Gillespie pointed out Steve Smith and Alex Carey as Cummins' potential replacement. Smith was, in fact, Australia's skipper for a long time for being removed. "They know they've got Steve Smith who is more than capable of leading, or Alex Carey," said Gillespie. The former Aussie, however, added that while Australia have depth in bowling department, it depends on Cameron Green's workload as the fourth seamer to allow Cummins to take some rest. "They have got enough depth in the bowling. The number of overs Cameron Green bowls is going to have a big impact. Because, if he bowls as few overs as he did in the first Test (eight), then it will put a bigger workload on Cummins and the other bowlers," said Gillespie. With ICC ODI World Cup just about a 100 days away, Australia would definitely want their skipper to be fully fit as they try to win their first Ashes in England in over 20 years. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023: Ex-pacer names THIS player who can lead Australia apart from Steve Smith if Pat Cummins takes rest

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidafXGEAYOzLc7" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>For anyone with a beating heart to watch Steve Smith getting floored after being hit in the back of the head off Jofra Archer’s bouncer was a terrible sight. Imagine how painful it must be for Smith. Upon returning to the Mecca of Cricket – the Lord’s, for the first time since the 2019 Ashes Test, Smith recalls the incident wherein he got ruled out of the game due to concussion.</p>

<p>Smith was in tremendous form and was up against a bowler with raw pace – Jofra Archer. While batting on 80, Smith got hit on his arm off Archer’s steamy bouncer before one that hit the back of his head floored him. It was at that moment when everything inside that stadium stopped.</p>

<p>With team doctors running onto the field, Smith was down and was taken off immediately. Though he returned after the fall of the next wicket, following smashing Chris Woakes for a boundary, Smith got out LBW on 88. He then got ruled out of the game due to a concussion.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-marnus-steve-are-their-best-coaches-oz-batting-coach-on-star-pair-rising-from-edgbaston-slump-608503">Ashes 2023 - 'Marnus, Steve are their best coaches': Oz batting coach on star pair rising from Edgbaston slump</a></p>

<p>As the best Aussie batter returns to the same venue for the second Test of the ongoing Ashes 2023, Smith - in a conversation with the&nbsp;<em>Legend of the Ashes podcast,&nbsp;</em>recalls the horror memory of that incident.</p>

<p>"It was a very difficult period to get through. I caught one on the arm, got away with a few pull shots that are top edge and a couple in the gaps,” Smith said.</p>

<p>Revealing how painful that blow to the back of his head was, Smith said, "And then I copped one in the back of the head, which hurt a fair bit. At that stage, I didn't realise I was getting concussed. I went off and did all the tests, passed all the tests.</p>

<p>Steve added after the adrenalin went out of the system, the aftermaths of that hit struck him as he felt he was a couple of beers down.</p>

<p>"It wasn't until I came back out. Half-an-hour after, when the adrenalin sort of went out of my system, and I started to feel quite groggy - probably like I'd had a dozen beers, to be honest," the right-handed batter added.</p>

<h2>Blessing in disguise</h2>

<p>Very few must be aware that incident saw the birth of Marnus Labuschagne in Test cricket, as he made his debut as a substitute of a concussed player – Steve Smith.</p>

<p>Since getting into the Test setup, Marnus emerged as one of the best players in such a short period, and is now ranked number one in Tests.</p>

<p>While Smith, who scored over 700 runs in his previous outing in England, will aim to pile up runs as the second Test begins in three days time.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


For anyone with a beating heart to watch Steve Smith getting floored after being hit in the back of the head off Jofra Archer’s bouncer was a terrible sight. Imagine how painful it must be for Smith.

For anyone with a beating heart to watch Steve Smith getting floored after being hit in the back of the head off Jofra Archer’s bouncer was a terrible sight. Imagine how painful it must be for Smith. Upon returning to the Mecca of Cricket – the Lord’s, for the first time since the 2019 Ashes Test, Smith recalls the incident wherein he got ruled out of the game due to concussion. Smith was in tremendous form and was up against a bowler with raw pace – Jofra Archer. While batting on 80, Smith got hit on his arm off Archer’s steamy bouncer before one that hit the back of his head floored him. It was at that moment when everything inside that stadium stopped. With team doctors running onto the field, Smith was down and was taken off immediately. Though he returned after the fall of the next wicket, following smashing Chris Woakes for a boundary, Smith got out LBW on 88. He then got ruled out of the game due to a concussion. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023 - 'Marnus, Steve are their best coaches': Oz batting coach on star pair rising from Edgbaston slump As the best Aussie batter returns to the same venue for the second Test of the ongoing Ashes 2023, Smith - in a conversation with the Legend of the Ashes podcast, recalls the horror memory of that incident. "It was a very difficult period to get through. I caught one on the arm, got away with a few pull shots that are top edge and a couple in the gaps,” Smith said. Revealing how painful that blow to the back of his head was, Smith said, "And then I copped one in the back of the head, which hurt a fair bit. At that stage, I didn't realise I was getting concussed. I went off and did all the tests, passed all the tests. Steve added after the adrenalin went out of the system, the aftermaths of that hit struck him as he felt he was a couple of beers down. "It wasn't until I came back out. Half-an-hour after, when the adrenalin sort of went out of my system, and I started to feel quite groggy - probably like I'd had a dozen beers, to be honest," the right-handed batter added. Blessing in disguise Very few must be aware that incident saw the birth of Marnus Labuschagne in Test cricket, as he made his debut as a substitute of a concussed player – Steve Smith. Since getting into the Test setup, Marnus emerged as one of the best players in such a short period, and is now ranked number one in Tests. While Smith, who scored over 700 runs in his previous outing in England, will aim to pile up runs as the second Test begins in three days time. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes: 'It was a very difficult period to get through: Steve Smith recalls 'painful' Lord's memory from 2019

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidafXGEAYOzLc7" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Ranked number one batter in Tests, Marnus Labuschagne has had trouble settling down in four innings so far in the UK – two against India in the WTC Final and then against England in the first Ashes Test in Edgbaston. While star batter Steve Smith pounced on his chance against India, scoring his maiden WTC Final hundred in the first innings, he looked out of rhythm against England. After winning the first Test by a narrow margin of two wickets, the Australian pair will aim for a better outing at Lord’s.</p>

<p>Marnus got out on a golden duck in the first innings to Stuart Broad, with the seamer repealing rewards for perfectly executing his new out swinger that he was working on, especially for Marnus and Smith. While in the second innings, he got out in the same fashion, Australia’s batting coach Michael Di Venuto said these kinds of dismissals surprised them too but backed the right-hander to work on this and come on the top in the second Test, which begins on Wednesday, June 28.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-nasser-hussains-advice-to-ollie-robinson-after-backlash-over-khawaja-send-off-608448">Ashes 2023: Nasser Hussain's advice to Ollie Robinson after backlash over Khawaja send-off</a></p>

<p>Di Venuto said players like Marnus and Smith are their best coaches, and with them being good problem-solvers too, there is nothing much to read between the lines as both are likely to hit top form soon in the ongoing Ashes.</p>

<p>"Marnus is always working on his game," Australia’s batting coach said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. "You have all seen him train before; he is meticulous in how he goes about his preparation. He is always fidgeting around with different things technically. That is all pretty normal for Marn.</p>

<p>"Marn is his best coach. The same as Smudge [Smith]. They are their own best coaches. They are great problem solvers, and that is why they have been such great players for Australia for a period of time," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Marnus’ injury scare and Broad’s legacy</strong></p>

<p>Ahead of the start of the second Test, Marnus suffered a blow on his index finger of the right hand while facing throwdowns on Saturday. Though he stayed down and later was checked by the team doctor, Marnus resumed training shortly.</p>

<p>"He's got a finger that has copped a couple of knocks. I think he just got another one," di Venuto said.</p>

<p>While talking about Broad, who turned 37 on Saturday, June 24, Di Venuto said praised his tactics against two best batters in this format. He added, with more than 600 wickets, Broad knows how to get rid of top batters.</p>

<p>"He is a quality bowler and has been for a long time," he said. "You expect bowlers to think up plans and come up with different tactics to what they have in the past. It's no different to any other series at the moment." D'Costa added, "He's got nearly 600 wickets…should be no surprise he's got out the best batsmen in the world several times. And there have been times when Marnus has dominated him."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


Ranked number one batter in Tests, Marnus Labuschagne has had trouble settling down in four innings so far in the UK – two against India in the WTC Final and then against England in the first Ashes Test in Edgbaston.

Ranked number one batter in Tests, Marnus Labuschagne has had trouble settling down in four innings so far in the UK – two against India in the WTC Final and then against England in the first Ashes Test in Edgbaston. While star batter Steve Smith pounced on his chance against India, scoring his maiden WTC Final hundred in the first innings, he looked out of rhythm against England. After winning the first Test by a narrow margin of two wickets, the Australian pair will aim for a better outing at Lord’s. Marnus got out on a golden duck in the first innings to Stuart Broad, with the seamer repealing rewards for perfectly executing his new out swinger that he was working on, especially for Marnus and Smith. While in the second innings, he got out in the same fashion, Australia’s batting coach Michael Di Venuto said these kinds of dismissals surprised them too but backed the right-hander to work on this and come on the top in the second Test, which begins on Wednesday, June 28. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023: Nasser Hussain's advice to Ollie Robinson after backlash over Khawaja send-off Di Venuto said players like Marnus and Smith are their best coaches, and with them being good problem-solvers too, there is nothing much to read between the lines as both are likely to hit top form soon in the ongoing Ashes. "Marnus is always working on his game," Australia’s batting coach said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. "You have all seen him train before; he is meticulous in how he goes about his preparation. He is always fidgeting around with different things technically. That is all pretty normal for Marn. "Marn is his best coach. The same as Smudge [Smith]. They are their own best coaches. They are great problem solvers, and that is why they have been such great players for Australia for a period of time," he added. Marnus’ injury scare and Broad’s legacy Ahead of the start of the second Test, Marnus suffered a blow on his index finger of the right hand while facing throwdowns on Saturday. Though he stayed down and later was checked by the team doctor, Marnus resumed training shortly. "He's got a finger that has copped a couple of knocks. I think he just got another one," di Venuto said. While talking about Broad, who turned 37 on Saturday, June 24, Di Venuto said praised his tactics against two best batters in this format. He added, with more than 600 wickets, Broad knows how to get rid of top batters. "He is a quality bowler and has been for a long time," he said. "You expect bowlers to think up plans and come up with different tactics to what they have in the past. It's no different to any other series at the moment." D'Costa added, "He's got nearly 600 wickets…should be no surprise he's got out the best batsmen in the world several times. And there have been times when Marnus has dominated him." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes 2023 - 'Marnus, Steve are their best coaches': Oz batting coach on star pair rising from Edgbaston slump

<p>Australia head coach Andrew McDonald is not concerned about the form of former captain Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne after the duo failed to impress in the opening Ashes Test at Edgbaston. Australia narrowly avoided defeat in the opening Test against England after they clinched a two-wicket win to take a 1-0 lead in the Ashes. Both Labuschagne and Smith scored an aggregate of 35 runs in the contest as they failed to deliver for the World Test Champions.</p>

<h2><strong>McDonald not worried about Smith, Labuschagne</strong></h2>

<p>"We've got some areas we can improve, there's some growth within the team and there's two obvious ones. It's very rare that Marn and Smudge miss out in the same Test match," McDonald said on the duo.</p>

<p>Despite the failure of the duo, Usman Khawaja was the standout man for the Aussies after he scored 141 runs in the first innings while contributing 65 in the second innings. He was lucky in the first innings as he was dismissed on a no-ball when batting on 112. Labuschagne was dismissed on a golden duck by Stuart Broad in the first innings while the same bowler got the better of him in the second innings.</p>

<p>"There will be no doubt a craving for more net sessions from Marn and Smudge," McDonald said.</p>

<p>”They're disappointed they missed out in this game, but I think any time the Australian cricket team can win without those two performing at a high level is always a positive."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-bell-claims-australia-have-more-to-work-on-despite-cummins-cos-narrow-win-in-edgbaston-607319">Ashes 2023: Bell claims 'Australia have more to work on' despite Cummins &amp; Co.'s narrow win in Edgbaston</a></p>

<h2><strong>Aussies hunting for glory</strong></h2>

<p>The Aussies, having taken a 1-0 lead, will now look to hunt for more when they take on the hosts in the second Test match on Wednesday, June 28. They will look to capitalise as they try to retain the Ashes yet again. England last won the Ashes in 2015 while the Aussies have won the prestigious series on two of the last three occasions. However, they haven’t won the Ashes on English soil since 2001, having drawn the series in 2019. The last time Ashes was won by a team away from home was in 2011 when England got the better of Australia Down Under.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Australia head coach Andrew McDonald is not concerned about the form of former captain Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne after the duo failed to impress in the opening Ashes Test at Edgbaston.

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald is not concerned about the form of former captain Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne after the duo failed to impress in the opening Ashes Test at Edgbaston. Australia narrowly avoided defeat in the opening Test against England after they clinched a two-wicket win to take a 1-0 lead in the Ashes. Both Labuschagne and Smith scored an aggregate of 35 runs in the contest as they failed to deliver for the World Test Champions. McDonald not worried about Smith, Labuschagne "We've got some areas we can improve, there's some growth within the team and there's two obvious ones. It's very rare that Marn and Smudge miss out in the same Test match," McDonald said on the duo. Despite the failure of the duo, Usman Khawaja was the standout man for the Aussies after he scored 141 runs in the first innings while contributing 65 in the second innings. He was lucky in the first innings as he was dismissed on a no-ball when batting on 112. Labuschagne was dismissed on a golden duck by Stuart Broad in the first innings while the same bowler got the better of him in the second innings. "There will be no doubt a craving for more net sessions from Marn and Smudge," McDonald said. ”They're disappointed they missed out in this game, but I think any time the Australian cricket team can win without those two performing at a high level is always a positive." ALSO READ | Ashes 2023: Bell claims 'Australia have more to work on' despite Cummins & Co.'s narrow win in Edgbaston Aussies hunting for glory The Aussies, having taken a 1-0 lead, will now look to hunt for more when they take on the hosts in the second Test match on Wednesday, June 28. They will look to capitalise as they try to retain the Ashes yet again. England last won the Ashes in 2015 while the Aussies have won the prestigious series on two of the last three occasions. However, they haven’t won the Ashes on English soil since 2001, having drawn the series in 2019. The last time Ashes was won by a team away from home was in 2011 when England got the better of Australia Down Under. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023: Andrew McDonald not disappointed with Labuschagne, Smith's poor show, says 'it's very rare'

<p>Alex Carey has been one of Australia's key performers across formats. Despite a dismal run with the bat in Australia's four-match Test series versus India, early this year in the subcontinent, Carey has come up with vital knocks in the WTC final, versus India, and even during the ongoing opening Test of Ashes 2023 versus arch-rivals England. In the WTC summit clash, he returned with scores of 48 and 66 not out, whereas he also scored a 99-ball 66 in Australia's first innings of the Edgbaston Test versus Ben Stokes' England.</p>

<p>During the India tour, Carey failed to get going due to his shot selections. Even in the first innings of the WTC final, he fell for 48 playing a reverse sweep.&nbsp;Speaking to&nbsp;<i>Cricket.com.au</i>,&nbsp;Carey commented on his dismissal, saying, "There was no need to play that at The Oval in the first innings."&nbsp;Further, he revealed the response he got from two of the finest modern-day batters Virat Kohli and Steve Smith for playing the reverse sweep, forcing him to keep away from the stroke.</p>

<p>“When you have Virat Kohli and Steve Smith saying, 'What are you doing that for?', you probably listen to them,” Carey revealed.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-english-fans-mock-steve-smith-with-saw-you-crying-on-telly-on-day-4-of-edgbaston-test-watch-606434">Ashes 2023: English fans mock Steve Smith with 'saw you cry on telly' chants in Edgbaston Test - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>At present, Carey-starrer Australia are involved in an exciting first Test of Ashes 2023 in Edgbaston, Birmingham. Opting to bat first, Stokes-led England posted 393 for 8 declare, riding on Joe Root's 118 not out before Australia made 386 all-out in reply. With a slender lead of seven runs, England gave a 282-run target to the visitors as Pat Cummins &amp; Co. were 107 for 3 at stumps on the penultimate day on Monday (June 19). The fifth and final day's start has been delayed due to rain as Australia need another 174 runs whereas England are seven wickets away from a memorable win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Usman Khawaja, unbeaten on 34, Carey, Travis Head, etc. will hold the key for Australia on the final day.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Alex Carey has been one of Australia's key performers across formats. Despite a dismal run with the bat in Australia's four-match Test series versus India, early this year in the subcontinent, Carey has come up with vital knocks in the WTC final, versus India, and even during the ongoing opening Test of Ashes 2023 versus arch-rivals England.

Alex Carey has been one of Australia's key performers across formats. Despite a dismal run with the bat in Australia's four-match Test series versus India, early this year in the subcontinent, Carey has come up with vital knocks in the WTC final, versus India, and even during the ongoing opening Test of Ashes 2023 versus arch-rivals England. In the WTC summit clash, he returned with scores of 48 and 66 not out, whereas he also scored a 99-ball 66 in Australia's first innings of the Edgbaston Test versus Ben Stokes' England. During the India tour, Carey failed to get going due to his shot selections. Even in the first innings of the WTC final, he fell for 48 playing a reverse sweep. Speaking to Cricket.com.au, Carey commented on his dismissal, saying, "There was no need to play that at The Oval in the first innings." Further, he revealed the response he got from two of the finest modern-day batters Virat Kohli and Steve Smith for playing the reverse sweep, forcing him to keep away from the stroke. “When you have Virat Kohli and Steve Smith saying, 'What are you doing that for?', you probably listen to them,” Carey revealed. Also Read: Ashes 2023: English fans mock Steve Smith with 'saw you cry on telly' chants in Edgbaston Test - Watch At present, Carey-starrer Australia are involved in an exciting first Test of Ashes 2023 in Edgbaston, Birmingham. Opting to bat first, Stokes-led England posted 393 for 8 declare, riding on Joe Root's 118 not out before Australia made 386 all-out in reply. With a slender lead of seven runs, England gave a 282-run target to the visitors as Pat Cummins & Co. were 107 for 3 at stumps on the penultimate day on Monday (June 19). The fifth and final day's start has been delayed due to rain as Australia need another 174 runs whereas England are seven wickets away from a memorable win. Usman Khawaja, unbeaten on 34, Carey, Travis Head, etc. will hold the key for Australia on the final day. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'What are you doing that for?': Alex Carey shares Virat Kohli's reaction on his WTC final dismissal

<p>The opening Test of Ashes 2023 has lived up to expectations. After England opted to bat first, they rode on Joe Root's 118 not out to declare at 393 for 8. In reply, Australia made 386 all-out courtesy of Usman Khawaja's 141 as Ben Stokes &amp; Co. ended Day 3 at 28 for 2, with a lead of 35 runs. Day 4 turned out to be another exciting contest between bat and ball with the hosts restricting Australia to 107 for 3 in pursuit of 282. The penultimate day's play also saw the English fans target Steve Smith once again.</p>

<p>Ever since Smith returned to international cricket post the infamous sandpaper gate fiasco, which took place during his captaincy tenure in Australia's tour of South Africa in early 2018, the English fans have given him a hard time. They mocked him during the 2019 ODI World Cup, Ashes 2019 and the Edgbaston fans sledged him during Day 4's proceedings on Monday (June 19).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a video that has gone viral on social media platforms, home fans chanted 'Saw you cry&nbsp;on the telly' for Smith, reminding him of his press conference where he accepted his involvement in the sandpaper gate saga in 2018. Smith, however, didn't react much to the taunts. <strong>Here's the video -</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">English Crowd Mocking Steven Smith: We Saw You Crying on the Telly.<br />
Steven Smith is Tackling that with a smile🥺💯. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StevenSmith?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StevenSmith</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvsAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvsAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes2023</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes23</a> <a href="https://t.co/jgEwQ9MMpf">pic.twitter.com/jgEwQ9MMpf</a></p>
— Shaharyar Ejaz 🏏 (@SharyOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/SharyOfficial/status/1670859548905570330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/just-because-they-didnt-win-wtc-final-former-aussie-skipper-backs-rohit-sharma-to-remain-india-captain-606377">'Just because they didn’t win WTC final...': Former Aussie skipper backs Rohit Sharma to remain India captain</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Here's a throwback to Smith's press conference following the Sandpaper gate scandal -</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Heartbreaking. Steve Smith has broken down delivering a message to young Aussie cricket fans. <a href="https://t.co/l14AsvAhXz">pic.twitter.com/l14AsvAhXz</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/979294929418670080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Talking about the first Test in Ashes 2023, England's Stuart Broad's twin strikes dented Australia in a chase of 282 in the last session of Day 4. Broad also removed Smith for 6 (13) as the match is evenly poised at stumps on the&nbsp;penultimate day, with Australia in need of 174 more runs and England requiring seven wickets for a win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Day 5 has seen a delayed start due to rain. Fans from both camps will hope for rain to not hamper the entire day's play with an exciting end on cards at Edgbaston, Birmingham.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The opening Test of Ashes 2023 has lived up to expectations. After England opted to bat first, they rode on Joe Root's 118 not out to declare at 393 for 8. In reply, Australia made 386 all-out courtesy of Usman Khawaja's 141 as Ben Stokes & Co.

The opening Test of Ashes 2023 has lived up to expectations. After England opted to bat first, they rode on Joe Root's 118 not out to declare at 393 for 8. In reply, Australia made 386 all-out courtesy of Usman Khawaja's 141 as Ben Stokes & Co. ended Day 3 at 28 for 2, with a lead of 35 runs. Day 4 turned out to be another exciting contest between bat and ball with the hosts restricting Australia to 107 for 3 in pursuit of 282. The penultimate day's play also saw the English fans target Steve Smith once again. Ever since Smith returned to international cricket post the infamous sandpaper gate fiasco, which took place during his captaincy tenure in Australia's tour of South Africa in early 2018, the English fans have given him a hard time. They mocked him during the 2019 ODI World Cup, Ashes 2019 and the Edgbaston fans sledged him during Day 4's proceedings on Monday (June 19). In a video that has gone viral on social media platforms, home fans chanted 'Saw you cry on the telly' for Smith, reminding him of his press conference where he accepted his involvement in the sandpaper gate saga in 2018. Smith, however, didn't react much to the taunts. Here's the video - English Crowd Mocking Steven Smith: We Saw You Crying on the Telly. Steven Smith is Tackling that with a smile🥺💯. #StevenSmith #ENGvsAUS #Ashes2023 #Ashes23 pic.twitter.com/jgEwQ9MMpf — Shaharyar Ejaz 🏏 (@SharyOfficial) June 19, 2023 × Also Read: 'Just because they didn’t win WTC final...': Former Aussie skipper backs Rohit Sharma to remain India captain Here's a throwback to Smith's press conference following the Sandpaper gate scandal - Heartbreaking. Steve Smith has broken down delivering a message to young Aussie cricket fans. pic.twitter.com/l14AsvAhXz — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) March 29, 2018 × Talking about the first Test in Ashes 2023, England's Stuart Broad's twin strikes dented Australia in a chase of 282 in the last session of Day 4. Broad also removed Smith for 6 (13) as the match is evenly poised at stumps on the penultimate day, with Australia in need of 174 more runs and England requiring seven wickets for a win. Day 5 has seen a delayed start due to rain. Fans from both camps will hope for rain to not hamper the entire day's play with an exciting end on cards at Edgbaston, Birmingham. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Ashes 2023: English fans mock Steve Smith with 'saw you cry on telly' chants in Edgbaston Test - Watch

<p>Modern-day best Test batter Steve Smith says that for the English and Australian players winning the Ashes is above everything else. As the Ashes 2023 gets underway in Edgbaston on Friday, Smith talked about the 140-year-plus-old history of this iconic rivalry and its importance for both teams.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the start of the first Test, Australia beat India by 209 runs to win their maiden World Test Championship (WTC) Final at the Oval. Smith, who became the second Aussie batter after Travis Head to complete a hundred in the WTC Final, said he enjoyed lifting the Test mace, but to him, winning as Ashes would still top everything.</p>

<p>Smith's maiden WTC Final hundred, his 31st overall in Tests, helped Australia put a mammoth 469 in the first innings against India. After the Aussies wrapped up India's first innings on 296, they piled up 270 for eight (declared) and gave India a daunting target of 444. Following a cautious start, the Indian batters failed to stick as they got all out on 234, thus going down by 209 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-bazball-to-keep-draw-out-of-equation-says-nasser-hussain-605127">Ashes 2023: 'Bazball' to keep draw out of equation, says Nasser Hussain</a></p>

<p>“We had a great last week winning the Test championship. It was two years of hard work that went into it. It was a really proud moment for all the boys, but yeah, the Ashes, for Australia and England cricketers, is the pinnacle. We work for it throughout our life, so it's going to be exciting,” Smith said, as quoted by Hindustan Times.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, England's track record under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum has been excellent, with them winning 11 of the last 13 matches. Australia, which holds a better head-to-head record (34-32), are up for the challenge, and Smith feels the upcoming series will be an exciting contest.</p>

<p>“Just the history of it. Australia and England, it's the biggest series. It's the one you want to do really well in, and hope your team has success. The way England have been in playing, the way we have been playing, it's going to be exciting series. The boys can't wait to get into it,” added former Australia skipper Smith.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here is the Ashes schedule -</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20</li>
	<li>Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2</li>
	<li>Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10</li>
	<li>Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23</li>
	<li>Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


Modern-day best Test batter Steve Smith says that for the English and Australian players winning the Ashes is above everything else. As the Ashes 2023 gets underway in Edgbaston on Friday, Smith talked about the 140-year-plus-old history of this iconic rivalry and its importance for both teams.

Modern-day best Test batter Steve Smith says that for the English and Australian players winning the Ashes is above everything else. As the Ashes 2023 gets underway in Edgbaston on Friday, Smith talked about the 140-year-plus-old history of this iconic rivalry and its importance for both teams. Ahead of the start of the first Test, Australia beat India by 209 runs to win their maiden World Test Championship (WTC) Final at the Oval. Smith, who became the second Aussie batter after Travis Head to complete a hundred in the WTC Final, said he enjoyed lifting the Test mace, but to him, winning as Ashes would still top everything. Smith's maiden WTC Final hundred, his 31st overall in Tests, helped Australia put a mammoth 469 in the first innings against India. After the Aussies wrapped up India's first innings on 296, they piled up 270 for eight (declared) and gave India a daunting target of 444. Following a cautious start, the Indian batters failed to stick as they got all out on 234, thus going down by 209 runs. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023: 'Bazball' to keep draw out of equation, says Nasser Hussain “We had a great last week winning the Test championship. It was two years of hard work that went into it. It was a really proud moment for all the boys, but yeah, the Ashes, for Australia and England cricketers, is the pinnacle. We work for it throughout our life, so it's going to be exciting,” Smith said, as quoted by Hindustan Times. Meanwhile, England's track record under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum has been excellent, with them winning 11 of the last 13 matches. Australia, which holds a better head-to-head record (34-32), are up for the challenge, and Smith feels the upcoming series will be an exciting contest. “Just the history of it. Australia and England, it's the biggest series. It's the one you want to do really well in, and hope your team has success. The way England have been in playing, the way we have been playing, it's going to be exciting series. The boys can't wait to get into it,” added former Australia skipper Smith. Here is the Ashes schedule - First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20 Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2 Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10 Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23 Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31 WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

For WTC Final we work for two years, for Ashes we work throughout our life: Steve Smith

<p>For the second straight time, the Indian team has lost the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, this time against Australia by 209 runs at the Oval in London. The Australian team wrapped up the formalities on day five of the one-off Test with Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon running through India’s batting order.</p>

<p>With India starting day five needing 280 runs with seven wickets in hand, the consensus in the dressing room was this total can be achieved. While Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane began from where they left on Saturday, Boland had different plans. Boland, very smartly, set up Virat’s wicket by first bowling regular inswingers and then went fullish, only for Kohli to go after the ball and edge it to the slip cordon.</p>

<p>Standing in the second slip, Steve Smith didn’t make a mistake as he jumped to&nbsp;his right and took a blinder to dismiss Kohli on 49. Two balls later, Ravindra Jadeja got out after nicking one to keeper Carey on zero.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-day-5-watch-scott-boland-produces-stunning-spell-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-jadeja-in-one-over-603131">WTC Final, Day 5: WATCH – Scott Boland produces stunning spell to dismiss Virat Kohli, Jadeja in one over</a></p>

<p>In no time, Mitchell Starc, who looked out of rhythm so far, got the big fish of Ajinkya Rahane on 46, as Lyon trapped India’s first-inning hero with bat Shardul Thakur right in front the next over. Starc then returned to pick Umesh Yadav on just one.</p>

<p>Again, in the next over, Lyon got the last recognised batter in KS Bharat, as he mistimed one straight to Lyon. The off-spinner picked his fourth and final wicket of the game by removing Mohammed Siraj on one, as India got all out on 234.</p>

<p>Australia won the World Test Championship (WTC) Final by 209 runs.</p>

<h2>The final that&nbsp;Australia never lost</h2>

<p>After being asked to bat first, Australia avoided early jitters and owned all sessions on day one. Travis Head and Steve Smith notched up respective hundreds as the Oz put up a mammoth 469 in the first innings. For India, seamer Siraj starred, picking up four wickets.</p>

<p>India’s first innings saw them losing early wickets as they got reduced to 71 for four at one stage. Hard-fought fifties from comeback man Ajinkya Rahane, Ravindra Jadeja and an unlikely hero with the bat in hand, Shardul Thakur, ensured India doesn’t stay much behind. They got all out on 296.</p>

<p>In Australia’s second innings, they scored 270 for eight declared, with Alex Carey remaining unbeaten on 66 runs. Jadeja topped the wickets column as he returned with three for 58.</p>

<p>Needing 444 to win, India had its own troubles despite getting off to a good start. Though a much-needed partnership between Kohli and Rahane did give fans some hope, an exceptional bowling show from the other end saw Australia coming on top with 209 runs margin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With this win, the Australian Men’s Team has become the only team to have won all the ICC trophies to date.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


For the second straight time, the Indian team has lost the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, this time against Australia by 209 runs at the Oval in London. The Australian team wrapped up the formalities on day five of the one-off Test with Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon running through India’s batting order.

For the second straight time, the Indian team has lost the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, this time against Australia by 209 runs at the Oval in London. The Australian team wrapped up the formalities on day five of the one-off Test with Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon running through India’s batting order. With India starting day five needing 280 runs with seven wickets in hand, the consensus in the dressing room was this total can be achieved. While Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane began from where they left on Saturday, Boland had different plans. Boland, very smartly, set up Virat’s wicket by first bowling regular inswingers and then went fullish, only for Kohli to go after the ball and edge it to the slip cordon. Standing in the second slip, Steve Smith didn’t make a mistake as he jumped to his right and took a blinder to dismiss Kohli on 49. Two balls later, Ravindra Jadeja got out after nicking one to keeper Carey on zero. ALSO READ: WTC Final, Day 5: WATCH – Scott Boland produces stunning spell to dismiss Virat Kohli, Jadeja in one over In no time, Mitchell Starc, who looked out of rhythm so far, got the big fish of Ajinkya Rahane on 46, as Lyon trapped India’s first-inning hero with bat Shardul Thakur right in front the next over. Starc then returned to pick Umesh Yadav on just one. Again, in the next over, Lyon got the last recognised batter in KS Bharat, as he mistimed one straight to Lyon. The off-spinner picked his fourth and final wicket of the game by removing Mohammed Siraj on one, as India got all out on 234. Australia won the World Test Championship (WTC) Final by 209 runs. The final that Australia never lost After being asked to bat first, Australia avoided early jitters and owned all sessions on day one. Travis Head and Steve Smith notched up respective hundreds as the Oz put up a mammoth 469 in the first innings. For India, seamer Siraj starred, picking up four wickets. India’s first innings saw them losing early wickets as they got reduced to 71 for four at one stage. Hard-fought fifties from comeback man Ajinkya Rahane, Ravindra Jadeja and an unlikely hero with the bat in hand, Shardul Thakur, ensured India doesn’t stay much behind. They got all out on 296. In Australia’s second innings, they scored 270 for eight declared, with Alex Carey remaining unbeaten on 66 runs. Jadeja topped the wickets column as he returned with three for 58. Needing 444 to win, India had its own troubles despite getting off to a good start. Though a much-needed partnership between Kohli and Rahane did give fans some hope, an exceptional bowling show from the other end saw Australia coming on top with 209 runs margin. With this win, the Australian Men’s Team has become the only team to have won all the ICC trophies to date. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australia crowned World Test Champions after beating India by 209 runs at Oval

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidazJUjw4vjz0j" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Has there been a better replacement for a first-team player (Josh Hazlewood here) in Test cricket than Scott Boland? The lanky Victorian almost sealed the deal for the Aussies on day five of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India with his stunning spell. During the first hour of play, Boland dismissed Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja in the space of three balls to put India on the backfoot.</p>

<p>Boland, who got picked over regular seamer Hazlewood on precautionary grounds for this one-off Test, did wonders for his team by picking three wickets so far in the final innings at the Oval. After getting rid of dangerous Shubman Gill on Saturday, Boland took no time in sending the star pair of Kohli and Jadeja back to the hut.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-never-expected-that-ravi-shastri-laments-poor-shot-selection-from-cheteshwar-pujara-on-day-4-603081">WTC Final: 'Never expected that...:' Ravi Shastri laments poor shot selection from Cheteshwar Pujara on day 4</a></p>

<p>Smartly setting up Kohli early on day five, Boland first bowled a couple of usual inswingers and then pitched one on the fifth stump knowing Kohli’s weakness of chasing that – which eventually happened, and as he edged it with the hard hands, it went straight to the slip cordon where Steve Smith plucked a stunning catch to send the former Indian captain packing.</p>

<p>There was utter silence in the ground as hopes of thousands of Indian fans shattered in front of their eyes.</p>

<h2><strong>WATCH THE VIDEO HERE –</strong></h2>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="de">Virat Kohli - Wicket - Australia vs India via <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@icc</a> <a href="https://t.co/UHsY5JyxG2">https://t.co/UHsY5JyxG2</a></p>
— 𝗚𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝗼𝗱𝗵𝗶 (@GautamSodhi1) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamSodhi1/status/1667847001600577537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Coming in next was star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Boland came around the wicket to him, only to wrap him up in two balls. Jadeja left the first one but couldn’t stop himself from trying to put bat to ball on the second fullish delivery, resulting in him nicking one to the keeper Alex Carey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Boland, who already looked threatening with his tight line and lengths, made all the difference across two innings.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, India was in a decent position at stumps on day four, with scorecard reading 164 for three, with 280 runs needed to win.</p>

<p>After making most of the lead in the second innings, Australian batters struggled to score freely but still stood ahead with each run scored. Declaring on 270 for eight, Australia gave India a daunting target of 444 – a total that has never been chased in Test history.</p>

<p>The Indian openers came up with an attacking approach but couldn’t continue for long as they lost Gill and Rohit inside 100 runs. Cheteshwar Pujara also departed early by playing a poor shot, with Indian team left with Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane to build a partnership.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


Has there been a better replacement for a first-team player (Josh Hazlewood here) in Test cricket than Scott Boland? The lanky Victorian almost sealed the deal for the Aussies on day five of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India with his stunning spell.

Has there been a better replacement for a first-team player (Josh Hazlewood here) in Test cricket than Scott Boland? The lanky Victorian almost sealed the deal for the Aussies on day five of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India with his stunning spell. During the first hour of play, Boland dismissed Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja in the space of three balls to put India on the backfoot. Boland, who got picked over regular seamer Hazlewood on precautionary grounds for this one-off Test, did wonders for his team by picking three wickets so far in the final innings at the Oval. After getting rid of dangerous Shubman Gill on Saturday, Boland took no time in sending the star pair of Kohli and Jadeja back to the hut. ALSO READ: WTC Final: 'Never expected that...:' Ravi Shastri laments poor shot selection from Cheteshwar Pujara on day 4 Smartly setting up Kohli early on day five, Boland first bowled a couple of usual inswingers and then pitched one on the fifth stump knowing Kohli’s weakness of chasing that – which eventually happened, and as he edged it with the hard hands, it went straight to the slip cordon where Steve Smith plucked a stunning catch to send the former Indian captain packing. There was utter silence in the ground as hopes of thousands of Indian fans shattered in front of their eyes. WATCH THE VIDEO HERE – Virat Kohli - Wicket - Australia vs India via @icc https://t.co/UHsY5JyxG2 — 𝗚𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝗼𝗱𝗵𝗶 (@GautamSodhi1) June 11, 2023 × Coming in next was star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Boland came around the wicket to him, only to wrap him up in two balls. Jadeja left the first one but couldn’t stop himself from trying to put bat to ball on the second fullish delivery, resulting in him nicking one to the keeper Alex Carey. Boland, who already looked threatening with his tight line and lengths, made all the difference across two innings. Meanwhile, India was in a decent position at stumps on day four, with scorecard reading 164 for three, with 280 runs needed to win. After making most of the lead in the second innings, Australian batters struggled to score freely but still stood ahead with each run scored. Declaring on 270 for eight, Australia gave India a daunting target of 444 – a total that has never been chased in Test history. The Indian openers came up with an attacking approach but couldn’t continue for long as they lost Gill and Rohit inside 100 runs. Cheteshwar Pujara also departed early by playing a poor shot, with Indian team left with Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane to build a partnership. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WTC Final, Day 5: WATCH – Scott Boland produces stunning spell to dismiss Virat Kohli, Jadeja in one over

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidKiRWJzTsCM80" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Steve Smith’s love affair of piling up runs and runs together, especially at the Oval in London, continues even in the ongoing WTC Final against India. The greatest Test batter of this age and time, as also called the same by India great Virat Kohli, Smith hit his third hundred at the venue in his sixth innings, and alongside Travis Head – who also slammed his maiden ton on the English soil, scoring 163, Australia find them in a strong position in this one-off Test.</p>

<p>Stranded on 95 after stumps on day one, Smith required just two deliveries off his pads on day two to reach the milestone, and the Aussie batter was nothing but grateful about that. After the end of the second day’s play, Smith addressed the media and showered praises on Head, that partnership and how much he enjoys batting at the Kennington Oval.</p>

<p>"I quite like it for English conditions and the way the ball bounces over here. It obviously worked when I was here last time. And yeah, just the positions I get myself into, it doesn't mean I'm going to do it all the time. I may revert back to old styles at certain periods when I feel it's necessary, but on this surface and with the bowlers I was coming up against, I felt that was the right way forward," Smith said after completing his 31st Test hundred, most by any of the Fab Four.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-day-3-preview-rahane-bharat-must-save-indias-sinking-ship-as-oz-eye-big-lead-in-2nd-innings-602384">WTC Final, Day 3: Preview - Rahane, Bharat must save India's sinking ship as Oz eye big lead in 2nd innings</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, after Australia got reduced to 76 for three at one stage, it was a mountainous 285-run stand between the two that helped Australia put 469 on the board in the first innings. While Smith headlined for completing his 31st Test hundred, Travis Head hogged the limelight for his brilliant 163.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Obviously, a really good partnership with Travis, who batted beautifully in that middle session yesterday. I thought the way he took the game on, put the pressure back on their bowlers, got them off their lengths, which I think helped me at the other end as well. Yeah, set us up for a nice inning," Smudge, as fans often call him, added.</p>

<h2>Smith shares plans on how to dismiss India soon</h2>

<p>India find them in hot waters after losing five wickets for 151 runs at the stumps on day two. With them being 318 runs behind and considering Rahane and Bharat are the last-recognised batters at the crease, India are less likely to fancy their chances of a turnaround rightaway unless a miracle happens.</p>

<p>Talking about that length on the off stump that troubled most batters in this Test, Smith said,</p>

<p>"The length at off stump I think is important. We've obviously seen a bit of variable bounce and some seam movement. So, if we're challenging the top of the stumps as much as possible, I think that's the quickest way home. You can certainly get the outside edge from there if it seams away and bounces or takes off, which a couple have. And then pads and stumps are in play with the ones that shoot low or seam back. So, it's about as simple as we need to keep it, I think,” Smith added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


Steve Smith’s love affair of piling up runs and runs together, especially at the Oval in London, continues even in the ongoing WTC Final against India. The greatest Test batter of this age and time, as also called the same by India great Virat Kohli, Smith hit his third hundred at the venue in his sixth innings, and alongside Travis Head – who also slammed his maiden ton on the English soil, scoring 163, Australia find them in a strong position in this one-off Test.

Steve Smith’s love affair of piling up runs and runs together, especially at the Oval in London, continues even in the ongoing WTC Final against India. The greatest Test batter of this age and time, as also called the same by India great Virat Kohli, Smith hit his third hundred at the venue in his sixth innings, and alongside Travis Head – who also slammed his maiden ton on the English soil, scoring 163, Australia find them in a strong position in this one-off Test. Stranded on 95 after stumps on day one, Smith required just two deliveries off his pads on day two to reach the milestone, and the Aussie batter was nothing but grateful about that. After the end of the second day’s play, Smith addressed the media and showered praises on Head, that partnership and how much he enjoys batting at the Kennington Oval. "I quite like it for English conditions and the way the ball bounces over here. It obviously worked when I was here last time. And yeah, just the positions I get myself into, it doesn't mean I'm going to do it all the time. I may revert back to old styles at certain periods when I feel it's necessary, but on this surface and with the bowlers I was coming up against, I felt that was the right way forward," Smith said after completing his 31st Test hundred, most by any of the Fab Four. ALSO READ: WTC Final, Day 3: Preview - Rahane, Bharat must save India's sinking ship as Oz eye big lead in 2nd innings Meanwhile, after Australia got reduced to 76 for three at one stage, it was a mountainous 285-run stand between the two that helped Australia put 469 on the board in the first innings. While Smith headlined for completing his 31st Test hundred, Travis Head hogged the limelight for his brilliant 163. "Obviously, a really good partnership with Travis, who batted beautifully in that middle session yesterday. I thought the way he took the game on, put the pressure back on their bowlers, got them off their lengths, which I think helped me at the other end as well. Yeah, set us up for a nice inning," Smudge, as fans often call him, added. Smith shares plans on how to dismiss India soon India find them in hot waters after losing five wickets for 151 runs at the stumps on day two. With them being 318 runs behind and considering Rahane and Bharat are the last-recognised batters at the crease, India are less likely to fancy their chances of a turnaround rightaway unless a miracle happens. Talking about that length on the off stump that troubled most batters in this Test, Smith said, "The length at off stump I think is important. We've obviously seen a bit of variable bounce and some seam movement. So, if we're challenging the top of the stumps as much as possible, I think that's the quickest way home. You can certainly get the outside edge from there if it seams away and bounces or takes off, which a couple have. And then pads and stumps are in play with the ones that shoot low or seam back. So, it's about as simple as we need to keep it, I think,” Smith added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WTC Final: Steve 'Super' Smith continues his love affair of batting at the Oval, praises partnership with Head

<p>Australia&nbsp;started Day 1 of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India on the front foot as they ended at 327/3. Top knocks from Travis Head (unbeaten 146) and Steve Smith (unbeaten 95) stitched a partnership of 251 runs for the fourth wicket as the Aussies took control at the Oval. The ton from Head was the first in the history of the WTC final while Smith is also closing in on his 43rd international hundred.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Stumps on Day 1 🏏<br />
<br />
Indian bowlers were made to toil as Travis Head and Steve Smith put Australia in control 👊<br />
<br />
Follow the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC23</a> Final 👉 <a href="https://t.co/wJHUyVnX0r">https://t.co/wJHUyVnX0r</a> <a href="https://t.co/29K7u7rcPR">pic.twitter.com/29K7u7rcPR</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1666492288686514199?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Aussies suffered early setback</strong></h2>

<p>Asked to bat first in the challenging conditions of the Oval, Australia started on the back foot as they lost star batter Usman Khawaja for a duck in the fourth over. David Warner (43) and Marnus Labuschagne (26) then took control of the innings as they put together a 69-run stand for the second wicket. However, Shardul Thakur and Mohammed Siraj then struck in quick succession to put the Aussies back on the back foot.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-virat-kohli-hopes-for-another-rohit-sharma-century-at-the-oval-601649">WTC Final: Virat Kohli hopes for another Rohit Sharma century at the Oval</a></p>

<h2><strong>Head and Smith mastermind Aussie innings</strong></h2>

<p>At 76/3 in the first session, the Indians were at the top of their game as the decision to bowl looked wise. However, it was the Steve Smith and Travis Head show that would frustrate the Indian bowlers. On a challenging wicket that had bounce, both Smith and Head held their nerves until it became old. They took the attack against Indian pacers while giving no chance to Ravindra Jadeja to settle in the conditions.</p>

<p>On the fourth ball of the 65th over, Head bought his sixth Test hundred and looked in good touch, and need just 106 deliveries. In the meantime, Smith also continued his exploits but was scoring at a slower rate than Head. He brought his 38th Test fifty in the 62nd over.</p>

<p>In the same over, Head was also checked for concussion as a Mohammed Siraj delivery hit Travis on the head.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Australia started Day 1 of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India on the front foot as they ended at 327/3. Top knocks from Travis Head (unbeaten 146) and Steve Smith (unbeaten 95) stitched a partnership of 251 runs for the fourth wicket as the Aussies took control at the Oval.

Australia started Day 1 of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India on the front foot as they ended at 327/3. Top knocks from Travis Head (unbeaten 146) and Steve Smith (unbeaten 95) stitched a partnership of 251 runs for the fourth wicket as the Aussies took control at the Oval. The ton from Head was the first in the history of the WTC final while Smith is also closing in on his 43rd international hundred. Stumps on Day 1 🏏 Indian bowlers were made to toil as Travis Head and Steve Smith put Australia in control 👊 Follow the #WTC23 Final 👉 https://t.co/wJHUyVnX0r pic.twitter.com/29K7u7rcPR — ICC (@ICC) June 7, 2023 × Aussies suffered early setback Asked to bat first in the challenging conditions of the Oval, Australia started on the back foot as they lost star batter Usman Khawaja for a duck in the fourth over. David Warner (43) and Marnus Labuschagne (26) then took control of the innings as they put together a 69-run stand for the second wicket. However, Shardul Thakur and Mohammed Siraj then struck in quick succession to put the Aussies back on the back foot. ALSO READ | WTC Final: Virat Kohli hopes for another Rohit Sharma century at the Oval Head and Smith mastermind Aussie innings At 76/3 in the first session, the Indians were at the top of their game as the decision to bowl looked wise. However, it was the Steve Smith and Travis Head show that would frustrate the Indian bowlers. On a challenging wicket that had bounce, both Smith and Head held their nerves until it became old. They took the attack against Indian pacers while giving no chance to Ravindra Jadeja to settle in the conditions. On the fourth ball of the 65th over, Head bought his sixth Test hundred and looked in good touch, and need just 106 deliveries. In the meantime, Smith also continued his exploits but was scoring at a slower rate than Head. He brought his 38th Test fifty in the 62nd over. In the same over, Head was also checked for concussion as a Mohammed Siraj delivery hit Travis on the head. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: Head, Smith dominate with bat as Aussies take control at Oval on Day 1

<p>Indian speedster Mohammed Siraj was seen in a furious mood on Thursday, 8 June on the second day of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia.&nbsp;Vice-captain Steve Smith, who stamped his authority on the contest before departing for 121, had a heated exchange with Indian pacer Siraj as the Indian player was not happy with an unfortunate incident. While the heated exchange was the centre of attraction, it was the Aussie bowlers and batters who made headlines in the early hours of Thursday morning at the Oval.</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CtOZOz-viNz/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CtOZOz-viNz/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CtOZOz-viNz/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CtOZOz-viNz/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by ICC (@icc)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<h2><strong>What happened between Smith and Siraj?</strong></h2>

<p>On the fourth ball of the 86th over, Smith decided to pull out of the delivery at the last moment which sparked the anger for Siraj. Smith pointed towards the sky to indicate something was wrong and distracted his vision while Siraj came into bowl. An angry Siraj, already at the side of the umpire, angrily threw the ball in Smith’s direction.</p>

<p>The situation unfolded&nbsp;after Smith reached his 31st hundred for the Aussies in the Test format. The New South Wales batter leapfrogged Matthew Hayden for most Test hundreds while also bringing up his 43rd international ton. Only Steve Waugh (32) and Ricky Ponting (41) have reached the triple-figure mark on more occasions. Australia would later end their innings at 469 after they were bowled out by Indian bowlers.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-it-had-been-a-question-of-money-i-would-have-gone-to-saudi-arabia-lionel-messi-on-joining-inter-miami-601947">'If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia' - Lionel Messi on joining Inter Miami</a></p>

<h2><strong>Siraj completes 50 wickets in Tests</strong></h2>

<p>On the flip side, Siraj completed 50 wickets in Test cricket after scalping Nathan Lyon in the 120th over. During the Australian innings, Siraj was the pick of the bowlers for India. He took 4/108 in 28.3 overs. Siraj got the prized wickets of Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, skipper Pat Cummins, and Lyon.</p>

<p>In 19 Tests, Siraj has taken 51 wickets at an average of 30.96. His economy rate is 3.31, with the best bowling figure of 5/73, his solitary five-wicket haul in Test cricket.</p>

<p>India on the other hand did not make the best of starts as they lost both openers Shubman Gill (13) and Rohit Sharma (15) before the lunch break. Skipper Pat Cummins and Scott Boland were the pick of the bowlers for the Aussies as they narrowed India to 37/2 at the break. Virat Kohli was batting on 4 while Cheteshwar Pujara was unbeaten on 3 while India still trailed by 432 runs in the first innings.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Indian speedster Mohammed Siraj was seen in a furious mood on Thursday, 8 June on the second day of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia. Vice-captain Steve Smith, who stamped his authority on the contest before departing for 121, had a heated exchange with Indian pacer Siraj as the Indian player was not happy with an unfortunate incident.

Indian speedster Mohammed Siraj was seen in a furious mood on Thursday, 8 June on the second day of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia. Vice-captain Steve Smith, who stamped his authority on the contest before departing for 121, had a heated exchange with Indian pacer Siraj as the Indian player was not happy with an unfortunate incident. While the heated exchange was the centre of attraction, it was the Aussie bowlers and batters who made headlines in the early hours of Thursday morning at the Oval. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) What happened between Smith and Siraj? On the fourth ball of the 86th over, Smith decided to pull out of the delivery at the last moment which sparked the anger for Siraj. Smith pointed towards the sky to indicate something was wrong and distracted his vision while Siraj came into bowl. An angry Siraj, already at the side of the umpire, angrily threw the ball in Smith’s direction. The situation unfolded after Smith reached his 31st hundred for the Aussies in the Test format. The New South Wales batter leapfrogged Matthew Hayden for most Test hundreds while also bringing up his 43rd international ton. Only Steve Waugh (32) and Ricky Ponting (41) have reached the triple-figure mark on more occasions. Australia would later end their innings at 469 after they were bowled out by Indian bowlers. ALSO READ | 'If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia' - Lionel Messi on joining Inter Miami Siraj completes 50 wickets in Tests On the flip side, Siraj completed 50 wickets in Test cricket after scalping Nathan Lyon in the 120th over. During the Australian innings, Siraj was the pick of the bowlers for India. He took 4/108 in 28.3 overs. Siraj got the prized wickets of Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, skipper Pat Cummins, and Lyon. In 19 Tests, Siraj has taken 51 wickets at an average of 30.96. His economy rate is 3.31, with the best bowling figure of 5/73, his solitary five-wicket haul in Test cricket. India on the other hand did not make the best of starts as they lost both openers Shubman Gill (13) and Rohit Sharma (15) before the lunch break. Skipper Pat Cummins and Scott Boland were the pick of the bowlers for the Aussies as they narrowed India to 37/2 at the break. Virat Kohli was batting on 4 while Cheteshwar Pujara was unbeaten on 3 while India still trailed by 432 runs in the first innings. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: Mohammed Siraj gets furious with Steve Smith for THIS reason - WATCH

<p>India missed the trick after electing to bowl first against Australia in the World Test Championship Final. Although looking at the overhead conditions and a green, bouncy turf on offer, the call looked bang-on in the first hour, not realising the threat of chasing in the fourth innings after what transpired after the end of day one must have made them question their decision.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Plus, bearing the brunt of benching the ranked number one Test bowler and third-best all-rounder in the world, Ravi Ashwin, added salt to the injury. This call, questioned by many, was backed by the captain Rohit Sharma at the toss, who admitted it wasn't easy to drop Ashwin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-head-smith-dominate-with-bat-as-aussies-take-control-at-oval-on-day-1-601895">WTC Final: Head, Smith dominate with bat as Aussies take control at Oval on Day 1</a></p>

<p>The team named an extra seam-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur in the XI instead. Though he picked David Warner's prize wicket, the right-hand bowler went for runs, conceding 75 from 18 overs. Umesh Yadav, the third seamer for this one-off Test, looked out of rhythm, remaining wicketless after the day's play.</p>

<p>Travis Head and Steve Smith made light work of Indian bowlers, who looked clueless about their plans after the sun decided to keep the usual clouds away. With the pair closing in on completing a 300-run stand, things look gloomy for Team India heading into day two.</p>

<h2>What can India do to get back into the game?</h2>

<p>India still has a lot to play for, with four days remaining in the game. The way Mohammed Shami opened proceedings after lunch on day one by dismissing well-settled Marnus Labuschagne clean bowled off a peach, India require such a start to put brakes on the Aussies' innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Getting rid of this pair must be India's priority, as wrapping Australia's first innings with anything under 400 or 420 would be a bonus. Then in their first innings, with the wicket playing in the batter's favour, India must make the most of this chance and try and build a few partnerships. Not to forget, they need to give respect to the new ball to avoid facing the old fates of getting out early in a crunch situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's top four need to weather the storm with two of them, Shubman Gill and Chesteshwar Pujara, in stellar form. Besides, the onus will again fall on veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who need to put on runs to keep India stay alive in the match.</p>

<p>With India batting deep this time in the presence of Thakur at number eight, taking some risks after settling down will not be a bad idea either.</p>

<p>As things stand, Australia is 327 for three after stumps on day one.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


India missed the trick after electing to bowl first against Australia in the World Test Championship Final. Although looking at the overhead conditions and a green, bouncy turf on offer, the call looked bang-on in the first hour, not realising the threat of chasing in the fourth innings after what transpired after the end of day one must have made them question their decision.

India missed the trick after electing to bowl first against Australia in the World Test Championship Final. Although looking at the overhead conditions and a green, bouncy turf on offer, the call looked bang-on in the first hour, not realising the threat of chasing in the fourth innings after what transpired after the end of day one must have made them question their decision. Plus, bearing the brunt of benching the ranked number one Test bowler and third-best all-rounder in the world, Ravi Ashwin, added salt to the injury. This call, questioned by many, was backed by the captain Rohit Sharma at the toss, who admitted it wasn't easy to drop Ashwin. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Head, Smith dominate with bat as Aussies take control at Oval on Day 1 The team named an extra seam-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur in the XI instead. Though he picked David Warner's prize wicket, the right-hand bowler went for runs, conceding 75 from 18 overs. Umesh Yadav, the third seamer for this one-off Test, looked out of rhythm, remaining wicketless after the day's play. Travis Head and Steve Smith made light work of Indian bowlers, who looked clueless about their plans after the sun decided to keep the usual clouds away. With the pair closing in on completing a 300-run stand, things look gloomy for Team India heading into day two. What can India do to get back into the game? India still has a lot to play for, with four days remaining in the game. The way Mohammed Shami opened proceedings after lunch on day one by dismissing well-settled Marnus Labuschagne clean bowled off a peach, India require such a start to put brakes on the Aussies' innings. Getting rid of this pair must be India's priority, as wrapping Australia's first innings with anything under 400 or 420 would be a bonus. Then in their first innings, with the wicket playing in the batter's favour, India must make the most of this chance and try and build a few partnerships. Not to forget, they need to give respect to the new ball to avoid facing the old fates of getting out early in a crunch situation. India's top four need to weather the storm with two of them, Shubman Gill and Chesteshwar Pujara, in stellar form. Besides, the onus will again fall on veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who need to put on runs to keep India stay alive in the match. With India batting deep this time in the presence of Thakur at number eight, taking some risks after settling down will not be a bad idea either. As things stand, Australia is 327 for three after stumps on day one. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WTC Final, Day 2 - Preview: Following troubled start, clueless Indian team to aim for comeback

<p>Australia vice-captain Steve Smith was full of praise for Travis Head after the latter played a superb knock to see his side in command in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Smith, who also bought up his 43rd international hundred on Thursday, 8 June stitched a 285-run stand for the fourth wicket before being dismissed for 121 by Shardul Thakur. On the flip side, Head was dismissed on 163 before being scalped by Mohammed Siraj.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Steve Smith's love affair with India continues 😮<br />
<br />
Follow the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC23</a> Final 👉 <a href="https://t.co/wJHUyVnX0r">https://t.co/wJHUyVnX0r</a> <a href="https://t.co/inQo39ZaoD">pic.twitter.com/inQo39ZaoD</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1666746315487735808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Smith lauds Head</strong></h2>

<p>"I had the best seat in the house for the performance Head put on. But for me it is staying in the bubble, playing the way I know I play in test cricket. Not sort of shying away too much from that. If I tried to keep up with Heady, I would get myself into trouble. Just play what is in front of me and just keep batting," said Smith before the start of Day 2.</p>

<p>Asked to bat first in the challenging conditions of the Oval, Australia started on the back foot on Day 1 as they lost star batter Usman Khawaja for a duck in the fourth over. David Warner (43) and Marnus Labuschagne (26) then took control of the innings as they put together a 69-run stand for the second wicket. However, Shardul and Siraj then struck in quick succession to put the Aussies back on the back foot.</p>

<p>At 76/3 in the first session, the Indians were at the top of their game as the decision to bowl looked wise. However, it was the Steve Smith and Travis Head show that would frustrate the Indian bowlers. On a challenging wicket that had bounce, both Smith and Head held their nerves until it became old. They took the attack against Indian pacers while giving no chance to Ravindra Jadeja to settle in the conditions.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-it-had-been-a-question-of-money-i-would-have-gone-to-saudi-arabia-lionel-messi-on-joining-inter-miami-601947">'If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia' - Lionel Messi on joining Inter Miami</a></p>

<h2><strong>Smith on conditions</strong></h2>

<p>"I think yesterday it really helped. It put a lot of pressure back on the bowlers. Probably got them off their lengths a little bit. It translated to how they were bowling to me as well. I thought in the middle session, bowling perhaps a bit too short, probably didn't challenge the top of the stumps enough. I thought that came from the way Travis was playing and the pressure he was putting on them. So it was a nice partnership,” Smith said in the pre-day interview.</p>

<p>On Day 2 at the time of writing, the Aussies were 410/7 as Indian bowlers once again dominated the first hour as they scalped wickets to stamp their authority. Mohammed Shami, Siraj, and Shardul took two wickets each while Mitchell Starc was run out on 5.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Australia vice-captain Steve Smith was full of praise for Travis Head after the latter played a superb knock to see his side in command in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.

Australia vice-captain Steve Smith was full of praise for Travis Head after the latter played a superb knock to see his side in command in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Smith, who also bought up his 43rd international hundred on Thursday, 8 June stitched a 285-run stand for the fourth wicket before being dismissed for 121 by Shardul Thakur. On the flip side, Head was dismissed on 163 before being scalped by Mohammed Siraj. Steve Smith's love affair with India continues 😮 Follow the #WTC23 Final 👉 https://t.co/wJHUyVnX0r pic.twitter.com/inQo39ZaoD — ICC (@ICC) June 8, 2023 × Smith lauds Head "I had the best seat in the house for the performance Head put on. But for me it is staying in the bubble, playing the way I know I play in test cricket. Not sort of shying away too much from that. If I tried to keep up with Heady, I would get myself into trouble. Just play what is in front of me and just keep batting," said Smith before the start of Day 2. Asked to bat first in the challenging conditions of the Oval, Australia started on the back foot on Day 1 as they lost star batter Usman Khawaja for a duck in the fourth over. David Warner (43) and Marnus Labuschagne (26) then took control of the innings as they put together a 69-run stand for the second wicket. However, Shardul and Siraj then struck in quick succession to put the Aussies back on the back foot. At 76/3 in the first session, the Indians were at the top of their game as the decision to bowl looked wise. However, it was the Steve Smith and Travis Head show that would frustrate the Indian bowlers. On a challenging wicket that had bounce, both Smith and Head held their nerves until it became old. They took the attack against Indian pacers while giving no chance to Ravindra Jadeja to settle in the conditions. ALSO READ | 'If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia' - Lionel Messi on joining Inter Miami Smith on conditions "I think yesterday it really helped. It put a lot of pressure back on the bowlers. Probably got them off their lengths a little bit. It translated to how they were bowling to me as well. I thought in the middle session, bowling perhaps a bit too short, probably didn't challenge the top of the stumps enough. I thought that came from the way Travis was playing and the pressure he was putting on them. So it was a nice partnership,” Smith said in the pre-day interview. On Day 2 at the time of writing, the Aussies were 410/7 as Indian bowlers once again dominated the first hour as they scalped wickets to stamp their authority. Mohammed Shami, Siraj, and Shardul took two wickets each while Mitchell Starc was run out on 5. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: Steve Smith lauds Travis Head after historic ton, says 'I had the best seat in the house'

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidG43sV7Lv6KsX" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Batting great Steve Smith wishes for Test cricket’s longevity amid concerns surrounding the slow death of this format due to the growing culture of franchise-based T20 leagues. With all focus now on the World Test Championship Final between India and Australia, Smith opined, being a traditionalist, he wants this format to stay on every board’s priority and must be given utmost importance.</p>

<p>In the lead-up to the big tie against India, which starts on June 7th at the Oval in London, Smith said he thinks Test cricket is in a good space, and having watched a few matches lately, he believes this format is here to stay. He, however, remained concerned about its growth going&nbsp;forward.</p>

<p>"Yeah, I am slightly concerned. But yeah, hopefully, Test Cricket still stays alive and well. I think it's in a good place at the moment. In terms of some of the games, we've seen recently have been pretty amazing. So, yeah, for me as a, I suppose, a traditionalist, someone that loves Test cricket, I hope it still remains at the front of all the board's minds and stays alive and well for some time to come,” Smith said, as quoted by Cricbuzz.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-coach-rahul-dravid-dismisses-concern-around-winning-icc-trophy-says-india-is-under-no-pressure-600957">WTC Final: Coach Rahul Dravid dismisses concern around winning ICC trophy, says India is under no pressure</a></p>

<p>In regards to keeping this format relevant and important, Smith feels the WTC has come as a blessing and that the contest against India is going to glue everyone to their TV screens. Pressing on reaching this point after grinding hard for over two years in this WTC cycle, Smith said, "Oh, I mean it's really important. I think the World Test Championship now, having the two best teams play in a final, I think that's great. It adds a little bit more relevance, I suppose, to Test cricket. So it's what we all work towards for a couple of years. And this week should be an exciting one, and yeah the guys are looking forward to it."</p>

<h2>Smith aware of Shami, Siraj threat</h2>

<p>With the Indian camp keeping the cards close to their chest about the final XI against Australia, Smith remains aware of two-seamers who will play – Shami and Siraj. Considering the use of Duke Ball during the final and how good form both these pacers are in, they will be some threat to the daunting Aussie line-up.</p>

<p>"I think they've got a good mix obviously of quality seam bowlers. Shami and Siraj, probably their two main guys who have really good skills, and I think the Duke ball suits them nicely. And then obviously their spinners as well, who bowl really well in all conditions. So, I think they're a good attack and yeah, we're going to have to play well against them this week," Smith, who averages closer to 60 from 96 Tests, said.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, following the WTC Final, the Australian team will take on England in the Ashes, starting June 16th in Edgbaston.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


Batting great Steve Smith wishes for Test cricket’s longevity amid concerns surrounding the slow death of this format due to the growing culture of franchise-based T20 leagues.

Batting great Steve Smith wishes for Test cricket’s longevity amid concerns surrounding the slow death of this format due to the growing culture of franchise-based T20 leagues. With all focus now on the World Test Championship Final between India and Australia, Smith opined, being a traditionalist, he wants this format to stay on every board’s priority and must be given utmost importance. In the lead-up to the big tie against India, which starts on June 7th at the Oval in London, Smith said he thinks Test cricket is in a good space, and having watched a few matches lately, he believes this format is here to stay. He, however, remained concerned about its growth going forward. "Yeah, I am slightly concerned. But yeah, hopefully, Test Cricket still stays alive and well. I think it's in a good place at the moment. In terms of some of the games, we've seen recently have been pretty amazing. So, yeah, for me as a, I suppose, a traditionalist, someone that loves Test cricket, I hope it still remains at the front of all the board's minds and stays alive and well for some time to come,” Smith said, as quoted by Cricbuzz. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Coach Rahul Dravid dismisses concern around winning ICC trophy, says India is under no pressure In regards to keeping this format relevant and important, Smith feels the WTC has come as a blessing and that the contest against India is going to glue everyone to their TV screens. Pressing on reaching this point after grinding hard for over two years in this WTC cycle, Smith said, "Oh, I mean it's really important. I think the World Test Championship now, having the two best teams play in a final, I think that's great. It adds a little bit more relevance, I suppose, to Test cricket. So it's what we all work towards for a couple of years. And this week should be an exciting one, and yeah the guys are looking forward to it." Smith aware of Shami, Siraj threat With the Indian camp keeping the cards close to their chest about the final XI against Australia, Smith remains aware of two-seamers who will play – Shami and Siraj. Considering the use of Duke Ball during the final and how good form both these pacers are in, they will be some threat to the daunting Aussie line-up. "I think they've got a good mix obviously of quality seam bowlers. Shami and Siraj, probably their two main guys who have really good skills, and I think the Duke ball suits them nicely. And then obviously their spinners as well, who bowl really well in all conditions. So, I think they're a good attack and yeah, we're going to have to play well against them this week," Smith, who averages closer to 60 from 96 Tests, said. Meanwhile, following the WTC Final, the Australian team will take on England in the Ashes, starting June 16th in Edgbaston. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Steve Smith concerned about Test cricket's future, wishes for its survival with one eye on WTC Final

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidOhqXNPiIC8jU" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Veteran England seamer James Anderson believes getting Steve Smith out cheaply in the upcoming Ashes 2023 will be one of the aims if the hosts were to retain the urn for the first time since 2015. Ahead of the historic five-match Test series, which begins with the first game in Edgbaston, Birmingham on June 16th, Anderson said Smith had great success against them in the past and shall remain the threat that he is.</p>

<p>Speaking with Sydney Morning Herald, Anderson, 40, said though he doesn’t like singling out any player, he knows what Smith has done against them. The right-arm seamer also admitted to having gone overboard in thinking about how to dismiss him.</p>

<p>During the last away Ashes in 2019, Smith scored a mountain number of runs, piling up 774 runs in five Tests, averaging above 100 (110.57).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-michael-hussey-backs-virat-kohli-to-come-good-with-bat-expects-rohit-to-dictate-terms-early-on-597485">WTC Final: Michael Hussey backs Virat Kohli to come good with bat, expects Rohit to dictate terms early on</a></p>

<p>“I never really like singling anyone out, but Smith has had a lot of success against us in recent times. Maybe in the past, we’ve actually gone overboard in thinking of ways to get people out,” Anderson told Sydney Morning Herald.</p>

<p>While all talks are about how Steve Smith will fare against the English quicks, Anderson also had some words for the Aussie attack which is as lethal with the duke ball in those conditions as any bowling line-up. With Pat Cummins as captain and Smith playing his deputy, the Australian team have some smart brains taking calls during Ashes 2023.</p>

<p>"Australia have done it very well in the past, rotating their quicks. Even now Pat’s captain, with Steve Smith being able to take over the captaincy, I think he’ll still look after his body as much as possible,” Anderson added.</p>

<h2>We have clicked as a unit, says Anderson</h2>

<p>Under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum’s leadership, England’s Test team prospered like anything in the past 12 months, winning ten out of the 12 Tests. Speaking on their&nbsp;brand of cricket, which is labelled as ‘Bazball’ by fans,&nbsp;Anderson said,</p>

<p>"What we’ve done brilliantly in the last 12 months is thinking about what we do well. That’s worked particularly well for the batters not worrying about who’s bowling at them, and just really concentrating on their strengths and the areas they can score in,” the veteran seamer added.</p>

<p>Earlier, Anderson revealed he will not be available for the five Tests as he would a burnout. With Stuart Broad, Ollie Robinson, Chris Woakes and others, the England team will have to rotate its bowlers.</p>

<p><strong>Here is the Ashes schedule -</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20</li>
	<li>Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2</li>
	<li>Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10</li>
	<li>Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23</li>
	<li>Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


Veteran England seamer James Anderson believes getting Steve Smith out cheaply in the upcoming Ashes 2023 will be one of the aims if the hosts were to retain the urn for the first time since 2015.

Veteran England seamer James Anderson believes getting Steve Smith out cheaply in the upcoming Ashes 2023 will be one of the aims if the hosts were to retain the urn for the first time since 2015. Ahead of the historic five-match Test series, which begins with the first game in Edgbaston, Birmingham on June 16th, Anderson said Smith had great success against them in the past and shall remain the threat that he is. Speaking with Sydney Morning Herald, Anderson, 40, said though he doesn’t like singling out any player, he knows what Smith has done against them. The right-arm seamer also admitted to having gone overboard in thinking about how to dismiss him. During the last away Ashes in 2019, Smith scored a mountain number of runs, piling up 774 runs in five Tests, averaging above 100 (110.57). ALSO READ: WTC Final: Michael Hussey backs Virat Kohli to come good with bat, expects Rohit to dictate terms early on “I never really like singling anyone out, but Smith has had a lot of success against us in recent times. Maybe in the past, we’ve actually gone overboard in thinking of ways to get people out,” Anderson told Sydney Morning Herald. While all talks are about how Steve Smith will fare against the English quicks, Anderson also had some words for the Aussie attack which is as lethal with the duke ball in those conditions as any bowling line-up. With Pat Cummins as captain and Smith playing his deputy, the Australian team have some smart brains taking calls during Ashes 2023. "Australia have done it very well in the past, rotating their quicks. Even now Pat’s captain, with Steve Smith being able to take over the captaincy, I think he’ll still look after his body as much as possible,” Anderson added. We have clicked as a unit, says Anderson Under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum’s leadership, England’s Test team prospered like anything in the past 12 months, winning ten out of the 12 Tests. Speaking on their brand of cricket, which is labelled as ‘Bazball’ by fans, Anderson said, "What we’ve done brilliantly in the last 12 months is thinking about what we do well. That’s worked particularly well for the batters not worrying about who’s bowling at them, and just really concentrating on their strengths and the areas they can score in,” the veteran seamer added. Earlier, Anderson revealed he will not be available for the five Tests as he would a burnout. With Stuart Broad, Ollie Robinson, Chris Woakes and others, the England team will have to rotate its bowlers. Here is the Ashes schedule - First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20 Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2 Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10 Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23 Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31 WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes: James Anderson wary of Steve Smith threat, admits going overboard in thinking about how to dismiss him

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidHcPyagQrA94L" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Ranked number one Test batter in the world, Australia's Marnus Labuschagne has warned England of Steve Smith donning the 2019 hat - wherein he single-handedly punished the home side by scoring 774 runs from seven innings in the draw Ashes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the upcoming winter Ashes that begins with the first Test in Edgbaston on June 16th, Marnus revealed Smith's change in technique could be a nightmare for the hosts.</p>

<p>Playing for Glamorgan in the County Championship, Marnus is preparing for the Ashes 2023. While he is sure of his credentials heading into the mega event, Marnus feels Smith would again be the backbone of the travelling side.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/michael-atherton-backs-returning-jonny-bairstow-as-right-man-to-keep-wickets-for-ireland-test-as-ashes-looms-594050">Michael Atherton backs returning Jonny Bairstow as right man to keep wickets for Ireland Test as Ashes looms</a></p>

<p>Speaking with&nbsp;<em>The Sydney Morning Herald</em>, Marnus said the way Smith batted against West Indies and South Africa in the summer gone by and how he batted against England in 2019, there is a vast difference as he has tweaked his technique a bit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If you look at how he batted this summer against the West Indies and South Africa, compared to how he batted in the Ashes in 2019, they're two polar opposite methods of batting," Marnus said, as quoted in AFP.</p>

<p>"He has that freakish ability that he can find ways to have success regardless of how he plays," Labuschagne added.</p>

<p>Since the home summer where Smith shone with bat, he was surprisingly successful in the Big Bash - where he scored 346 from five matches, including two centuries. According to Marnus, this all happened because of a small change Smith did to his stance, changing it from being 'really open' to 'a lot more side on'.</p>

<p>"You can see why his Twenty20 game has gone through the roof with some of those technical changes. It's certainly helped him with his power and his swing. He took the mickey this summer in the white-ball stuff," he added.</p>

<p>"It just shows he can bat both those ways and have ample success. And knowing Steve he's made sure he works out what he feels is the best method to score runs here in England."</p>

<p>It's fair to say the former Test captain Smith loves playing in England, a country where he averages nearly 60 in 16 Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Representing Sussex in the ongoing County, Smith was on 68* overnight against Marnus' Glamorgan.</p>

<p><strong>Here is the Ashes schedule -&nbsp;</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20</li>
	<li>Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2</li>
	<li>Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10</li>
	<li>Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23</li>
	<li>Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


Ranked number one Test batter in the world, Australia's Marnus Labuschagne has warned England of Steve Smith donning the 2019 hat - wherein he single-handedly punished the home side by scoring 774 runs from seven innings in the draw Ashes.

Ranked number one Test batter in the world, Australia's Marnus Labuschagne has warned England of Steve Smith donning the 2019 hat - wherein he single-handedly punished the home side by scoring 774 runs from seven innings in the draw Ashes. Ahead of the upcoming winter Ashes that begins with the first Test in Edgbaston on June 16th, Marnus revealed Smith's change in technique could be a nightmare for the hosts. Playing for Glamorgan in the County Championship, Marnus is preparing for the Ashes 2023. While he is sure of his credentials heading into the mega event, Marnus feels Smith would again be the backbone of the travelling side. ALSO READ: Michael Atherton backs returning Jonny Bairstow as right man to keep wickets for Ireland Test as Ashes looms Speaking with The Sydney Morning Herald, Marnus said the way Smith batted against West Indies and South Africa in the summer gone by and how he batted against England in 2019, there is a vast difference as he has tweaked his technique a bit. "If you look at how he batted this summer against the West Indies and South Africa, compared to how he batted in the Ashes in 2019, they're two polar opposite methods of batting," Marnus said, as quoted in AFP. "He has that freakish ability that he can find ways to have success regardless of how he plays," Labuschagne added. Since the home summer where Smith shone with bat, he was surprisingly successful in the Big Bash - where he scored 346 from five matches, including two centuries. According to Marnus, this all happened because of a small change Smith did to his stance, changing it from being 'really open' to 'a lot more side on'. "You can see why his Twenty20 game has gone through the roof with some of those technical changes. It's certainly helped him with his power and his swing. He took the mickey this summer in the white-ball stuff," he added. "It just shows he can bat both those ways and have ample success. And knowing Steve he's made sure he works out what he feels is the best method to score runs here in England." It's fair to say the former Test captain Smith loves playing in England, a country where he averages nearly 60 in 16 Tests. Representing Sussex in the ongoing County, Smith was on 68* overnight against Marnus' Glamorgan. Here is the Ashes schedule - First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20 Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2 Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10 Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23 Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31 WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes 2023: Marnus Labuschagne warns England of bossman Steve Smith repeating 2019 heroics

<p>Australian Test vice-captain Steve Smith has hit back at veteran England pacer Stuart Broad after the latter’s comment on the 2021 Ashes where they lost 0-4. Broad, who had earlier described the 2021 Ashes as ‘void’ and had seen his team on the receiving end of a capitulating defeat, is looking forward to making an impression in the upcoming Ashes which begins in Edgbaston in June. Smith, on the flip side, has also started his preparations for the Ashes, having already landed in England.</p>

<p>"I mean, it was a little odd," Steve Smith said.</p>

<p>Smith was seen in excellent touch during his last Ashes visit to England and was one of the star performers of the side. Broad on the flip side did not have a positive tour Down Under in 2021-22 and scalped only 13 wickets, the most by any English bowler. Smith though was not happy with Broad’s comment and looked animated before the start of the Ashes.</p>

<p>"We were all there and playing so it was a little bit odd, you know? He's a nice guy and loves throwing out some good banter so it's all part of it.</p>

<p>"It certainly wasn't an ideal scenario. But the whole world was going through it and we were in the middle of a pandemic, so we couldn't really complain too much.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-unsurprised-by-the-approach-but-we-arent-tempted-alex-carey-plays-down-matching-engs-bazball-style-588795">Ashes: Unsurprised by the approach but we aren't tempted - Alex Carey plays down matching ENG's Bazball style</a></p>

<p>"We were actually out there being able to do what we love, so I don't really have much more to add to it," Smith said.</p>

<p>The former Australia skipper scored a staggering 744 runs in the Ashes in 2019 and helped his side regain the Ashes after it ended in a stalemate. He only managed to score 244 runs in the previous edition but had happy memories of having led his team to one win in the absence of Pat Cummins.</p>

<p>The latest chapter of the rivalry will kick start on June 19 in Edgbaston England look to regain the Ashes for the first time in eight years. Ben Stokes’ men haven’t tasted a win in the historic series since 2015 but will look to continue their impressive run in the last 12 months.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Australian Test vice-captain Steve Smith has hit back at veteran England pacer Stuart Broad after the latter’s comment on the 2021 Ashes where they lost 0-4. Broad, who had earlier described the 2021 Ashes as ‘void’ and had seen his team on the receiving end of a capitulating defeat, is looking forward to making an impression in the upcoming Ashes which begins in Edgbaston in June.

Australian Test vice-captain Steve Smith has hit back at veteran England pacer Stuart Broad after the latter’s comment on the 2021 Ashes where they lost 0-4. Broad, who had earlier described the 2021 Ashes as ‘void’ and had seen his team on the receiving end of a capitulating defeat, is looking forward to making an impression in the upcoming Ashes which begins in Edgbaston in June. Smith, on the flip side, has also started his preparations for the Ashes, having already landed in England. "I mean, it was a little odd," Steve Smith said. Smith was seen in excellent touch during his last Ashes visit to England and was one of the star performers of the side. Broad on the flip side did not have a positive tour Down Under in 2021-22 and scalped only 13 wickets, the most by any English bowler. Smith though was not happy with Broad’s comment and looked animated before the start of the Ashes. "We were all there and playing so it was a little bit odd, you know? He's a nice guy and loves throwing out some good banter so it's all part of it. "It certainly wasn't an ideal scenario. But the whole world was going through it and we were in the middle of a pandemic, so we couldn't really complain too much. ALSO READ | Ashes: Unsurprised by the approach but we aren't tempted - Alex Carey plays down matching ENG's Bazball style "We were actually out there being able to do what we love, so I don't really have much more to add to it," Smith said. The former Australia skipper scored a staggering 744 runs in the Ashes in 2019 and helped his side regain the Ashes after it ended in a stalemate. He only managed to score 244 runs in the previous edition but had happy memories of having led his team to one win in the absence of Pat Cummins. The latest chapter of the rivalry will kick start on June 19 in Edgbaston England look to regain the Ashes for the first time in eight years. Ben Stokes’ men haven’t tasted a win in the historic series since 2015 but will look to continue their impressive run in the last 12 months. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023: Steve Smith takes a jibe at Stuart Broad's claim of 'void series' after 4-0 humiliation Down Under

<p>Ahead of the India-Australia ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final face-off, which will take place early next month at The Oval, London, Cheteshwar Pujara and Steve Smith are set to play for Sussex. After Sussex acquired the Australian's services early this year -- with the batter&nbsp;to prepare for Ashes 2023 and WTC finale -- both Pujara and Smith will share the dressing room before they represent their respective sides in India-Australia's marquee face-off.</p>

<p>Pujara shared his excitement of playing along with Smith. The duo were part of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, held in India, where Pujara-starrer India beat Smith's Australia 2-1.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have spoken, but most of the time we have played against each other. It is never for the same team, so it will be exciting to have him in the same side," Pujara was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-cricket-thrives-because-of-players-like-yashasvi-jaiswal-harbhajan-lauds-rrs-centurion-after-mi-tie-587792">Indian cricket thrives because of players like Yashasvi Jaiswal: Harbhajan lauds RR's centurion after MI tie</a></strong></p>

<p>Pujara further asserted, "I will try and get his thoughts, try and know him a little better. We will be playing the WTC final, so it will be mixed feelings. On the field we always have good battles, but off the field we are good friends."</p>

<p>"All of us are looking forward to having him here and sharing his experience. He has a lot of knowledge about the game so it will be nice to have his inputs," India's reliable No. 3&nbsp;concluded.</p>

<p>For Pujara, Sussex has been extremely lucky for him. After being dropped from India's Test squad early in 2022, he represented the club and amassed plenty of runs (1,094 in 13 County outings) to revive his red-ball career. In addition, he scored 624 runs in Royal London One-Day Cup last year (second-most overall) at a strike rate of 111.62. Overall, he ended the 2022 season with eight tons (five in County -- including a double ton --&nbsp;and three in the ODI tournament).</p>

<p>Pujara has already started the 2023 season on a high, with two centuries for Sussex in the ongoing&nbsp;County Championship Division Two.</p>


Ahead of the India-Australia ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final face-off, which will take place early next month at The Oval, London, Cheteshwar Pujara and Steve Smith are set to play for Sussex.

Ahead of the India-Australia ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final face-off, which will take place early next month at The Oval, London, Cheteshwar Pujara and Steve Smith are set to play for Sussex. After Sussex acquired the Australian's services early this year -- with the batter to prepare for Ashes 2023 and WTC finale -- both Pujara and Smith will share the dressing room before they represent their respective sides in India-Australia's marquee face-off. Pujara shared his excitement of playing along with Smith. The duo were part of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, held in India, where Pujara-starrer India beat Smith's Australia 2-1. "We have spoken, but most of the time we have played against each other. It is never for the same team, so it will be exciting to have him in the same side," Pujara was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo. Also Read: Indian cricket thrives because of players like Yashasvi Jaiswal: Harbhajan lauds RR's centurion after MI tie Pujara further asserted, "I will try and get his thoughts, try and know him a little better. We will be playing the WTC final, so it will be mixed feelings. On the field we always have good battles, but off the field we are good friends." "All of us are looking forward to having him here and sharing his experience. He has a lot of knowledge about the game so it will be nice to have his inputs," India's reliable No. 3 concluded. For Pujara, Sussex has been extremely lucky for him. After being dropped from India's Test squad early in 2022, he represented the club and amassed plenty of runs (1,094 in 13 County outings) to revive his red-ball career. In addition, he scored 624 runs in Royal London One-Day Cup last year (second-most overall) at a strike rate of 111.62. Overall, he ended the 2022 season with eight tons (five in County -- including a double ton -- and three in the ODI tournament). Pujara has already started the 2023 season on a high, with two centuries for Sussex in the ongoing County Championship Division Two.

'Will try and know him a little better': Pujara excited to play with Steve Smith in Sussex before WTC final

<p>After a terrific run in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, in India, spinner Todd Murphy made the cut in Cricket Australia's (CA) expended 24-man list of centrally contracted players for the 2023-24 season. Along with him, uncapped pacer Lance Morris also features in the list with Australia's eye on the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final and Ashes 2023, both to be held&nbsp;in the United Kingdom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Murphy had a stunning debut series in the India-Australia Tests, in the subcontinent, and ended with 14 wickets at 25.21 including a seven-fer on debut in the Nagpur Test. The other backup&nbsp;fast bowlers such as Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson and Sean Abbott have also&nbsp;been handed contracts. Meanwhile, Mitchell Swepson, Peter Handscomb and the recently retired Aaron Finch are some notable absentees.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here's Cricket Australia contracted men's players 2023-24 season:</strong></p>

<p>Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kane-williamson-to-undergo-surgery-in-three-weeks-following-leg-injury-set-to-miss-world-cup-in-india-579638">Kane Williamson to undergo surgery in three weeks following leg injury, set to miss World Cup in India</a></strong></p>

<p>"We have chosen a group of players we expect will form the majority of those two campaigns and we know that we will need a squad mentality to achieve success," national selector George Bailey said. "As we find each year now, there is a lot of cricket in the next six to 12 months and our depth will be tested. The six Test matches during the winter are in relatively short succession and we have a busy period of white ball cricket leading up to, and post, the ODI World Cup."</p>

<p>At present, several Australian cricketers are part of the ongoing&nbsp;Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition in India. They have an important year ahead with the WTC final, versus India in early June, Ashes 2023 and the ODI World Cup in India in October-November.&nbsp;</p>


After a terrific run in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, in India, spinner Todd Murphy made the cut in Cricket Australia's (CA) expended 24-man list of centrally contracted players for the 2023-24 season.

After a terrific run in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, in India, spinner Todd Murphy made the cut in Cricket Australia's (CA) expended 24-man list of centrally contracted players for the 2023-24 season. Along with him, uncapped pacer Lance Morris also features in the list with Australia's eye on the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final and Ashes 2023, both to be held in the United Kingdom. Murphy had a stunning debut series in the India-Australia Tests, in the subcontinent, and ended with 14 wickets at 25.21 including a seven-fer on debut in the Nagpur Test. The other backup fast bowlers such as Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson and Sean Abbott have also been handed contracts. Meanwhile, Mitchell Swepson, Peter Handscomb and the recently retired Aaron Finch are some notable absentees. Here's Cricket Australia contracted men's players 2023-24 season: Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar Also Read: Kane Williamson to undergo surgery in three weeks following leg injury, set to miss World Cup in India "We have chosen a group of players we expect will form the majority of those two campaigns and we know that we will need a squad mentality to achieve success," national selector George Bailey said. "As we find each year now, there is a lot of cricket in the next six to 12 months and our depth will be tested. The six Test matches during the winter are in relatively short succession and we have a busy period of white ball cricket leading up to, and post, the ODI World Cup." At present, several Australian cricketers are part of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition in India. They have an important year ahead with the WTC final, versus India in early June, Ashes 2023 and the ODI World Cup in India in October-November.

Australia's central contract for 2023-24 season: Todd Murphy makes the cut in CA's expanded list

<p>Defending champions Gujarat Titans have been dealt a blow as their star batter Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the tournament after injuring his knee in the season opener against Chennai Super Kings.</p>

<p>Williamson will now be travelling back home to New Zealand for further assessment and treatment, as per the tweet by Gujarat. Titans, however, were able to win the match by five wickets, thanks to last-overs heroics of spinner Rashid Khan and Rahul Tewatia.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We regret to announce, Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the TATA IPL 2023, after sustaining an injury in the season opener against Chennai Super Kings.<br />
<br />
We wish our Titan a speedy recovery and hope for his early return. <a href="https://t.co/SVLu73SNpl">pic.twitter.com/SVLu73SNpl</a></p>
— Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) <a href="https://twitter.com/gujarat_titans/status/1642386218364071936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>While Titans haven't named a replacement yet, there are many who think Australian stalwart Steve Smith could be the perfect replacement for the Kiwi star. Smith is currently with the Star Sports' commentary team and is not playing in league.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-poor-execution-sloppy-fielding-cost-us-the-match-laments-delhi-capitals-coach-ricky-ponting-578207">IPL 2023: Poor execution, sloppy fielding cost us the match, laments Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting</a></p>

<p>The batter although, was asked about possibility of playing for Titans and said, "I don't know if I'll qualify, I didn't even put myself in the auctions. So I don't think there's even a possibility. So, maybe next year, we will see where we go."</p>

<p>"I think that would be a brilliant call, and Steve Smith is the kind of player they want, somebody who can play all kinds of gears. Plus with the new rules which he finds very cool, I'd love to see Smith's captaincy, we saw that and we were raving about it in the India-Australia series," he said. "And Hardik Pandya needs a bit of help, he confessed, 'I have no idea what my tactics are, so I'm going to leave it to the others.' So, that could be a great call actually," he added.</p>

<p>Smith has already played IPL for various teams including Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals. He has so far played 103 matches in the IPL, scoring 2,485 runs at an average of 34.51. Smith has also managed to score 11 fifties and one hundred in the league.</p>

<p>Gujarat, meanwhile, face Delhi Capitals next on April 4 in an away game.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Defending champions Gujarat Titans have been dealt a blow as their star batter Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the tournament after injuring his knee in the season opener against Chennai Super Kings.

Defending champions Gujarat Titans have been dealt a blow as their star batter Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the tournament after injuring his knee in the season opener against Chennai Super Kings. Williamson will now be travelling back home to New Zealand for further assessment and treatment, as per the tweet by Gujarat. Titans, however, were able to win the match by five wickets, thanks to last-overs heroics of spinner Rashid Khan and Rahul Tewatia. We regret to announce, Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the TATA IPL 2023, after sustaining an injury in the season opener against Chennai Super Kings. We wish our Titan a speedy recovery and hope for his early return. pic.twitter.com/SVLu73SNpl — Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) April 2, 2023 × While Titans haven't named a replacement yet, there are many who think Australian stalwart Steve Smith could be the perfect replacement for the Kiwi star. Smith is currently with the Star Sports' commentary team and is not playing in league. Also Read: IPL 2023: Poor execution, sloppy fielding cost us the match, laments Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting The batter although, was asked about possibility of playing for Titans and said, "I don't know if I'll qualify, I didn't even put myself in the auctions. So I don't think there's even a possibility. So, maybe next year, we will see where we go." "I think that would be a brilliant call, and Steve Smith is the kind of player they want, somebody who can play all kinds of gears. Plus with the new rules which he finds very cool, I'd love to see Smith's captaincy, we saw that and we were raving about it in the India-Australia series," he said. "And Hardik Pandya needs a bit of help, he confessed, 'I have no idea what my tactics are, so I'm going to leave it to the others.' So, that could be a great call actually," he added. Smith has already played IPL for various teams including Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals. He has so far played 103 matches in the IPL, scoring 2,485 runs at an average of 34.51. Smith has also managed to score 11 fifties and one hundred in the league. Gujarat, meanwhile, face Delhi Capitals next on April 4 in an away game. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IPL 2023: Smith for injured Williamson in Gujarat Titans? Here's Aussie batsman's reply

<p>Former Australia captain Steve Smith is in awe of MS Dhoni. Having led perhaps one of the greatest captains ever at the Rising Pune Super Giants (RPSG) in IPL 2017, Smith revealed how MS inspired him from behind the wickets and how his inputs helped Smith guide his team to the final.</p>

<p>Smith, who will be joining the commentary team for the upcoming IPL 2023, heaped praises on MS and even admitted he got shocked when RPSG management asked him to captain the franchise instead of Dhoni, saying he didn’t have answers to that. Revealing what it was like leading MS Dhoni, Smith said he enjoyed doing that, but it was daunting at the same time.</p>

<p>"It was a great experience being able to captain him, but also very daunting as well," Smith told Star Sports. "When I got the call to say that they wanted me to captain, it was a little bit daunting. But that season, MSD was just wonderful. You know, he helped in any way that he could and he's a terrific guy," Smith added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-delhi-capitals-set-to-bring-in-bengal-keeper-abhishek-porel-as-rishabh-pants-replacement-577166">IPL 2023: Delhi Capitals set to bring in Bengal keeper Abhishek Porel as Rishabh Pant's replacement</a></p>

<p>Elaborating further on his first thoughts after getting approached for the leadership role, Smith said he didn’t believe in the first place and instead asked them if they had spoken with MS Dhoni about the same.</p>

<p>However, upon accepting the role and having succeeded in leading his team to the finals, which they lost against Mumbai Indians, Smith said he had Dhoni's back and that the former India captain was wonderful throughout - – something he cannot thank him enough for.</p>

<p>"Yeah, I didn't really know what to expect initially, you know, MS had captained every team he played for, obviously throughout the IPL with Chennai, every season should I say. "But yeah, when they came and asked me, I was a little bit shocked at first, and then I didn't really know what to say. It was like, have you spoken to MS about this? This is a little bit strange from my side, but after we sorted everything out, MS was just wonderful,” he said.</p>

<p>"And the way he helped me and helped guide that team that year was incredible. And yeah, I couldn't thank him enough," Steve Smith added.</p>

<p>Smith, who recently led Australia to the ODI series win over India, also said MS Dhoni’s nature of remaining cool and calm in almost situation inspired him to such an extent that Smith acquired that trait, not only for that season but for the future as well.</p>

<p>"I think just the calmness that MS shows; we saw it throughout his career, just how calm he was. It didn't look like he was flustered by any emotions or anything like that. "And that's certainly something that I've taken in not just in that season, but just watching him go about his business in the prior years, just how calm and relaxed he was,” Smith said.</p>

<p>“And you know, at times I can get quite agitated and things like that. So you know, I have to try and keep myself as calm and as sort of level-headed as I can. And yeah, that's certainly something that I learned off of MS," Smith concluded.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, back to captaining Chennai Super Kings the following year, MS Dhoni guided his team to the third IPL title, beating SunRisers Hyderabad in the finals. Now Dhoni will lead his CSK franchise in IPL 2023 as they start their campaign against defending champions Gujarat Titans on March 31st.</p>


Former Australia captain Steve Smith is in awe of MS Dhoni. Having led perhaps one of the greatest captains ever at the Rising Pune Super Giants (RPSG) in IPL 2017, Smith revealed how MS inspired him from behind the wickets and how his inputs helped Smith guide his team to the final.

Former Australia captain Steve Smith is in awe of MS Dhoni. Having led perhaps one of the greatest captains ever at the Rising Pune Super Giants (RPSG) in IPL 2017, Smith revealed how MS inspired him from behind the wickets and how his inputs helped Smith guide his team to the final. Smith, who will be joining the commentary team for the upcoming IPL 2023, heaped praises on MS and even admitted he got shocked when RPSG management asked him to captain the franchise instead of Dhoni, saying he didn’t have answers to that. Revealing what it was like leading MS Dhoni, Smith said he enjoyed doing that, but it was daunting at the same time. "It was a great experience being able to captain him, but also very daunting as well," Smith told Star Sports. "When I got the call to say that they wanted me to captain, it was a little bit daunting. But that season, MSD was just wonderful. You know, he helped in any way that he could and he's a terrific guy," Smith added. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: Delhi Capitals set to bring in Bengal keeper Abhishek Porel as Rishabh Pant's replacement Elaborating further on his first thoughts after getting approached for the leadership role, Smith said he didn’t believe in the first place and instead asked them if they had spoken with MS Dhoni about the same. However, upon accepting the role and having succeeded in leading his team to the finals, which they lost against Mumbai Indians, Smith said he had Dhoni's back and that the former India captain was wonderful throughout - – something he cannot thank him enough for. "Yeah, I didn't really know what to expect initially, you know, MS had captained every team he played for, obviously throughout the IPL with Chennai, every season should I say. "But yeah, when they came and asked me, I was a little bit shocked at first, and then I didn't really know what to say. It was like, have you spoken to MS about this? This is a little bit strange from my side, but after we sorted everything out, MS was just wonderful,” he said. "And the way he helped me and helped guide that team that year was incredible. And yeah, I couldn't thank him enough," Steve Smith added. Smith, who recently led Australia to the ODI series win over India, also said MS Dhoni’s nature of remaining cool and calm in almost situation inspired him to such an extent that Smith acquired that trait, not only for that season but for the future as well. "I think just the calmness that MS shows; we saw it throughout his career, just how calm he was. It didn't look like he was flustered by any emotions or anything like that. "And that's certainly something that I've taken in not just in that season, but just watching him go about his business in the prior years, just how calm and relaxed he was,” Smith said. “And you know, at times I can get quite agitated and things like that. So you know, I have to try and keep myself as calm and as sort of level-headed as I can. And yeah, that's certainly something that I learned off of MS," Smith concluded. Meanwhile, back to captaining Chennai Super Kings the following year, MS Dhoni guided his team to the third IPL title, beating SunRisers Hyderabad in the finals. Now Dhoni will lead his CSK franchise in IPL 2023 as they start their campaign against defending champions Gujarat Titans on March 31st.

IPL 2023: 'The way MS Dhoni helped me, guided me was incredible, he's terrific,' says Steve Smith

<p>Former Australia skipper and Rajasthan Royals star Steve Smith is set to feature in the Indian Premier League (IPL) season 16, despite going unsold in the auctions. The star Aussie all-rounder will be seen in the commentary box for the upcoming season after it was confirmed by the broadcasters. Smith was last seen in the IPL in 2021 when Delhi Capitals signed him for Rs 2.20 crore and will now handle the microphone rather than the bat.</p>

<p>"Steve Smith has joined the expert panel for the marquee tournament. Smith will be making his broadcast debut with Star Sports, adding his invaluable insights and expertise to Star Sports' already impressive roster of panelists," the broadcaster said in a statement.</p>

<p>Smith, 33, announced his return to the tournament on Twitter on Monday, saying in a teaser video: "Namaste, India. I've got some exciting news for you: I'm joining IPL 2023.”</p>

<p>The Aussie star first came into the spotlight in 2012, when he was snapped by the Pune Warriors India and would then play for the Rising Pune Supergiants. With the latter, Smith reached the final of the IPL in 2017 before failing to take his team over the line in the final over of the season finale. Smith then signed for Rajasthan Royals and led the side before being released ahead of the 2021 season.</p>

<p>"DON'T blink if you're being held at gunpoint," one Twitter user quipped.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-sachin-tendulkar-abdul-razzaq-names-master-blasters-iconic-teammate-as-most-dangerous-player-576611">Not Sachin Tendulkar! Abdul Razzaq names Master Blaster's ICONIC teammate as 'most dangerous player'</a></p>

<p>The former Australia captain was recently seen leading the ODI side as regular skipper Pat Cummins was absent due to the death of his ill mother. Smith’s Aussie side came from behind to win 2-1 while condemning India to their first home ODI series defeat in four years.</p>

<p>Till now he has played 103 matches in his IPL career. He has scored 2485 runs, with an average of 34.51. He has also slammed one century and 11 half-centuries, with his highest IPL score being 101 runs.</p>

<p>The IPL 2023 season will start on Friday, March 31 when defending champions Gujarat Titans take on four-time champions Chennai Super Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmadabad.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Former Australia skipper and Rajasthan Royals star Steve Smith is set to feature in the Indian Premier League (IPL) season 16, despite going unsold in the auctions.

Former Australia skipper and Rajasthan Royals star Steve Smith is set to feature in the Indian Premier League (IPL) season 16, despite going unsold in the auctions. The star Aussie all-rounder will be seen in the commentary box for the upcoming season after it was confirmed by the broadcasters. Smith was last seen in the IPL in 2021 when Delhi Capitals signed him for Rs 2.20 crore and will now handle the microphone rather than the bat. "Steve Smith has joined the expert panel for the marquee tournament. Smith will be making his broadcast debut with Star Sports, adding his invaluable insights and expertise to Star Sports' already impressive roster of panelists," the broadcaster said in a statement. Smith, 33, announced his return to the tournament on Twitter on Monday, saying in a teaser video: "Namaste, India. I've got some exciting news for you: I'm joining IPL 2023.” The Aussie star first came into the spotlight in 2012, when he was snapped by the Pune Warriors India and would then play for the Rising Pune Supergiants. With the latter, Smith reached the final of the IPL in 2017 before failing to take his team over the line in the final over of the season finale. Smith then signed for Rajasthan Royals and led the side before being released ahead of the 2021 season. "DON'T blink if you're being held at gunpoint," one Twitter user quipped. ALSO READ | Not Sachin Tendulkar! Abdul Razzaq names Master Blaster's ICONIC teammate as 'most dangerous player' The former Australia captain was recently seen leading the ODI side as regular skipper Pat Cummins was absent due to the death of his ill mother. Smith’s Aussie side came from behind to win 2-1 while condemning India to their first home ODI series defeat in four years. Till now he has played 103 matches in his IPL career. He has scored 2485 runs, with an average of 34.51. He has also slammed one century and 11 half-centuries, with his highest IPL score being 101 runs. The IPL 2023 season will start on Friday, March 31 when defending champions Gujarat Titans take on four-time champions Chennai Super Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmadabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IPL 2023: Former Australia skipper Steve Smith back in spotlight, set to feature in THIS role

steve-smith

Steve Smith, News on Steve Smith, stories on Steve Smith, articles on Steve Smith, Steve Smith stories at Wion, Steve Smith news, Steve Smith latest news

steve smith