Former England cricket star Monty Panesar has responded to remarks made by Australian captain Steve Smith ahead of the upcoming Ashes series. Panesar and Smith engaged in a verbal exchange before the First Test in Perth, which resulted in a quick defeat for the visiting team within two days.
England, led by Ben Stokes, suffered an eight-wicket loss at the Optus Stadium and have now traveled to Brisbane for the Second Test at The Gabba. Prior to the series opener, Panesar suggested that England should leverage the 2018 ball-tampering scandal to unsettle Australia and gain a competitive edge.
In response, Smith brought up Panesar’s appearance on BBC’s Celebrity Mastermind in 2019 during a press conference. Smith humorously referenced Panesar’s quiz performance and dismissed any impact of Panesar’s comments on him.
Panesar has now addressed Smith’s comments, expressing surprise at Smith’s knowledge of his quiz answers and finding amusement in being able to unsettle Australians from his sofa. Reflecting on the Test match outcome, Panesar noted that England’s victory would have added to his satisfaction.
Regarding the media coverage of the sandpaper incident, Panesar highlighted the potential psychological tactics England could employ, particularly through Ben Stokes. Panesar also mentioned the on-field atmosphere during Smith’s batting innings and acknowledged Smith’s stature as a top-class player and captain.
Panesar concluded by emphasizing the England team’s strategic decisions on using psychological strategies against Australia in the ongoing Ashes series. His comments were made in an interview with BOYLE Sports ahead of the second Ashes Test match.
For live coverage of the Ashes series starting on November 21, fans can watch the action on TNT Sports via discovery+ or Prime Video’s TNT Sports channel. Stay updated with the latest cricket news by signing up for the newsletter The Cricket Drop.
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