The Ashes: Steve Smith brushes off confrontation with Jofra Archer
What's the story
Australia's stand-in captain, Steve Smith, has brushed off his confrontation with England's fast bowler Jofra Archer as nothing more than "good banter." The exchange was picked up on stump microphones during the recent Test match at The Gabba. Smith scored an unbeaten 23 off just nine balls to help Australia secure an eight-wicket victory on Day 4 of the Day-Night Test as the hosts took a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.
Banter details
Smith and Archer's on-field banter
During Australia's run chase, Archer bowled a fiery spell, regularly hitting speeds of up to 150km/h. Smith decided to take him on, pulling the first ball he faced from Archer for four before missing an attempted uppercut. The two then exchanged words at close quarters with Archer asking Smith why he was playing his shots when there was no rush on the scoreboard. "Why play your shots when there's no rush on the scoreboard?" Archer had asked Smith.
Response
Smith's response to Archer's question
Smith responded to Archer's question by saying, "You bowl fast when there's nothing going on, champion." The exchange came just after Ben Stokes and Jake Weatherald had a similar verbal spat. Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting commented on the incident during Channel 7's coverage, saying he liked Archer finally coming to life in the series. He also criticized England for not being good enough in previous days of the match.
Strategy
Smith explains his aggressive approach
After the match, Smith explained his aggressive approach against Archer as a "high-percentage" option due to the short boundary behind him and possible rain. He said he heard there was a storm coming around and it was a chance to play some shots. Smith added that the adrenaline was pumping at the end of the game with Jofra bowling pretty quick.
Performance review
Archer's performance and McCullum's comments
Despite his fiery spell on the fourth evening, Archer had a frustrating Test match with just one wicket in 30 overs. He also saw simple catches dropped off his bowling by Jamie Smith and Brydon Carse. England coach Brendon McCullum said Archer has a "huge role" to play in the rest of the series despite his mixed performance so far.
Summary
Australia tame England in Brisbane Test
England's first innings ended at 334/10 thanks to Joe Root's unbeaten 138. Meanwhile, Starc claimed six wickets. Australia finished at 511/10 in response as five of their batters scored fifties - Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Alex Carey, and Starc. A 50-run knock from Ben Stokes meant England managed 241/10 in their second outing. Australia (69/2) then accomplished the target without breaking a sweat.