Former England cricket player Monty Panesar has reacted to statements made by Australian captain Steve Smith ahead of the Ashes series. Panesar and Smith had a verbal exchange before the First Test in Perth, where England faced a quick defeat in just two days.
After suffering an eight-wicket loss at Optus Stadium, Ben Stokes and the England team have moved to Brisbane for the Second Test at The Gabba. Prior to the series opener, Panesar suggested England could use the 2018 ball-tampering scandal to unsettle Australia and gain an advantage.
In response, Smith brought up Panesar’s appearance on BBC’s Celebrity Mastermind in 2019 during a press conference. Smith humorously referenced Panesar’s performance on the show, highlighting some of Panesar’s answers to quiz questions.
Panesar has now addressed Smith’s comments, expressing surprise at Smith’s knowledge of his quiz answers. Panesar mentioned that he found pleasure in being able to affect the Australian team from afar and hoped for England’s victory in the Test match.
Reflecting on the media coverage, Panesar noted that the British media did not emphasize his remarks on the sandpaper incident, suggesting that Ben Stokes could potentially use it as a psychological advantage. Panesar highlighted the interaction with Smith and his observations on Smith’s performance during the match.
Panesar acknowledged Smith’s cricketing prowess and strategic acumen, praising his captaincy decisions with bringing Travis Head to the top of the batting order. He emphasized that it is up to the England team to decide how to utilize any potential psychological edge in the upcoming matches.
In an interview with BOYLE Sports, Panesar shared his insights on the ongoing banter between him and Smith, offering a unique perspective on the dynamics of the Ashes series. The second Test match is approaching, and cricket enthusiasts can follow the live action on TNT Sports via discovery+ or Prime Video’s TNT Sports channel.
Stay updated on the latest Ashes news by signing up for the newsletter, The Cricket Drop. The Ashes series kicks off on November 21, promising an exciting showdown between England and Australia.