Jamie Smith must step up as England's 'heartbeat': Matt Prior
What's the story
Former England wicketkeeper Matt Prior has emphasized the need for Jamie Smith to embrace his role as the "heartbeat" of the team. This comes after England's disappointing performance in the ongoing Ashes series, where they are trailing Australia 2-0. Smith has struggled with his form lately, failing to score more than 33 runs in his last eight Test innings and making some errors behind the stumps. Here's more.
Game dynamics
Prior's analogy of wicketkeeper's role
Prior, who played 79 Tests and won three Ashes series with England, likened the wicketkeeper's role to that of a drummer in a band. He said on BBC's Stumped podcast, "The keeper's role has always been the heartbeat of that group on the field." He added that a good keeper helps captains and bowlers with angles and tactics for different batsmen.
External focus
Prior urges Smith to focus on external factors
Prior stressed that Smith, in his role as wicketkeeper, should be keen to be out there and fight for the team. He said if a player is just focusing on their own game, they can't pay attention to external factors which are crucial for the captain, bowlers and rest of the team. Prior also advised Smith to prepare well and ensure his game is in good order before stepping onto the field.
Tactical input
Prior emphasizes on tactical contribution from Smith
Prior also stressed the importance of Smith's tactical contribution as a wicketkeeper. He said, "Sometimes you have to force yourself massively, but just focus on 'Is Jofra hitting the gloves well? Is he swinging it back, is it going across, is the ball swinging, is it not?'" Prior also suggested that Smith should engage fielders like Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope in their plans against Australian batsman Steve Smith.
Keeper's responsibility
Healy's perspective on Smith's role
Former Australia wicketkeeper Ian Healy also weighed in on the matter, saying Smith needs to provide tactical input but can rely on his teammates to put pressure on the opposition. He said, "If you care for your team and care for your role as a wicketkeeper, you're going to give that bowler some advice, you're going to hatch a plan together." Healy added that silence behind the stumps is not good for batters.
Pressure acknowledgment
Healy acknowledges pressure on Smith
Healy also acknowledged the pressure Smith would be under as a wicketkeeper. He said, "It's a niggle in the back of your head. I've got to lift or I'm gone here, or my confidence is low." Prior also understood the unique pressures Smith will be feeling in his role and how dropping a catch can add more pressure on him.
Information
Smith has posted string of poor scores in Ashes 2025-26
The Ashes 2025-26 series has witnessed Smith falter big time. He scored 33 and 15 at the Perth Stadium in the opener. Thereafter, scores of 0 and 4 followed at The Gabba, Brisbane in what was a Day-Night Test.