Steve Smith Fires ‘Tricky Wickets, Successful Attack’ Warning To England Ahead Of Ashes 2025 | Cricket

Steve Smith and Jofra Archer had a heated battle in 2023 Ashes

Photo : AP

Steve Smith has issued a stern warning to England ahead of the crucial Ashes series in November, saying that the Australia tour will be a tougher challenge for the Three Lions. Smith lauded England for a good series against India, where they won two Tests and drew the series, but added that the conditions Down Under will be much trickier, and against a quality pace attack, it won’t be easy.

“Their series against India was one of the best I’ve seen in years. They play aggressive cricket, but batting in Australia will be a big challenge. Our wickets have been tricky, and we’ve got an experienced, successful bowling attack,” Smith told Sky Sports in an interview.

When Did England Last Win The Ashes In Australia?

England last won the Ashes in Australia in 2010-11, winning the series 3-1, courtesy of 766 runs by Alastair Cook and James Anderson’s 24 wickets. The team, however, has not won a Test in Australia since then, struggling against a top-notch bowling attack in hostile conditions.

Steve Smith Lauds Joe Root

Smith also lauded Joe Root for his brilliant run in Tests of late. Root scored 537 runs against India in the recently concluded series, and Smith was wary of the threat he brings to the table. Root has not scored a century in Australia, and Smith hopes the bowlers will ensure he doesn’t reach the three-figure mark in the Ashes this year.

Joe Root scored 537 runs in recently concluded series against India
Joe Root scored 537 runs in recently concluded series against India

Photo : AP

“He’s been outstanding the past two years, turning 50s into big hundreds. He hasn’t scored a Test hundred in Australia yet — I’m sure he’ll be aiming for it, but hopefully he doesn’t get it this summer.

“We’ll just let our skills do the talking. We know our conditions well and trust our game,” Smith added.


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