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"Our Wickets Are...": Steve Smith Sends Chilling Ashes Warning To England's Bazball

Akshita Patel

Steve Smith ignites Ashes heat [Source: @cricketcomau, @englandcricket/X.com]Steve Smith ignites Ashes heat [Source: @cricketcomau, @englandcricket/X.com]

Steve Smith has hopped on to the war of words leading up to the much-anticipated Ashes 2025 series, reminding England that playing in Australia is a completely different challenge compared to anywhere else in the world. He subtly challenged ‘Bazball’ to adapt to tricky Australian pitches.

The high-stakes Ashes series is scheduled in November this year. While the series is not happening for another couple of months, the psychological warfare between the two fierce countries has already begun.

Steve Smith Challenges ‘Bazball’ Ahead Of Ashes

Speaking to Sky Sports, Australian star batter Steve Smith praised England’s performance in their recent clash against India, where they managed to win two Tests and draw the series. 

However, he quickly reminded everyone that Australia’s home conditions are a different beast, something England’s Bazball approach will struggle to adapt to.

“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 said.

Interestingly, Smith’s warning is not without reason. England last won the Ashes in Australia way back in 2010-11, when Alastair Cook’s 766 runs and James Anderson’s 24 wickets powered them to a famous 3-1 series win. 

Since then, England have not managed to win a single Test in Australia, repeatedly struggling against pace and bounce. 

Smith Shared Good Words For Rival Joe Root

Despite the intense rivalry, Steve Smith reserved high praise for Joe Root, who scored a brilliant 537 runs against India and has been in sublime form since last year.

“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," he added.

However, Smith also hit a nerve, saying Root is yet to prove himself in Australian conditions and score a hundred.