Steve Smith was dismissed for his smallest knock of the 2019 Ashes series as England claimed a comprehensive victory in the final Test at the Oval.
With Australia needing 399 to win the series and prevent England from tying things up at 2-2, the visitors were dealt a massive blow when their star batsman was caught on 23 at leg slip off a Stuart Broad short ball.
England have tried for periods throughout the series to have Smith caught at the position, going close on a number of occasions to jagging his all-important wicket, but until Day 4 at the Oval, had ultimately failed to do so.
However, after Smith overcame his immediate frustration, Tim Paine revealed the 30-year-old’s reaction to the dismissal in the pavilion which proves he’s always thinking two steps ahead.
While England did indeed draw the series, Australia had already retained the Ashes following their victory in Manchester in the fourth Test.
Brad
Guest
James, I would hate to think how England would be carrying on if the saint Ben stokes had an average like Smith’s.
Nudge
Roar Rookie
I can’t see how it’s arrogant. He was asked the question and he said if they want to bowl on my hip, go for it. A bit like when he was asked the question when he was returning for the 4th test, how you going to cope with the short stuff from Archer. Answer was, that’s great if they aren’t aiming for the stumps or trying to nick me off.
When you average 11 more than literally any current player in test cricket how could you not be just a tinge arrogant about your own batting ability? False modesty isn't a good trait either.
Richie
Roar Rookie
Fair enough.
James Butcher
Roar Rookie
No sour grapes I can assure you, as I stated quite clearly, he’s a great player. He’s just starting to sound pretty arrogant with it, that’s all.
Richie
Roar Rookie
Not sure how you get “conceited” out of that. Maybe it’s a case of sour grapes on your behalf James!
Mon
Guest
No he isn’t, precious. What he said was absolutely correct.
John Erichsen
Roar Guru
It's not a superiority thing. It's just that he is better than everyone else.
James Butcher
Roar Rookie
Great player no doubt but he’s becoming a conceited little so and so with it.