Steve Smith showcased his incredible batting prowess on Day 2 of the second Ashes 2023 Test against England at Lord’s. The former Australian captain continued his exceptional form by smashing a remarkable century, marking his 32nd hundred in Test cricket and 8th on English soil. Smith’s stellar batting performance propelled the tourists to a total of 416 in their first innings.
However, as the day progressed, Smith found himself in an unusual situation of having to bowl a few deliveries towards the end of the day’s play. The sight of Smith bowling was rare, and he seemed reluctant as he took on this task, displaying his aversion towards bowling.
The reason behind Smith’s unexpected bowling cameo was the injury to Australian spinner Nathan Lyon. Lyon injured his calf while fielding shortly after the Tea break and was unable to continue participating in the match. In Lyon’s absence, Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, turned to part-timer Travis Head, who bowled five economical overs.
If Lyon remains sidelined for the remainder of the match, Smith, who only bowled one over, might be required to contribute a few more overs. During the post-day press conference, Smith was questioned about the possibility of him bowling more in the Test. In a light-hearted response, Smith revealed that he had not been working on his bowling at all. He acknowledged Head’s decent overs and expressed confidence in him continuing to bowl, but mentioned that if needed, he and Marnus Labuschagne would chip in with their bowling as well.
“Hopefully I won’t have to bowl too much. I haven’t been working on my bowling at all! I thought Heady bowled alright. Heady’s probably the one that’s going to have a take a fair chunk of the spin, and then maybe myself and Marnus (Labuschagne) will chip in here and there,” said Smith.
Here is the video:
How much has Steven Smith worked on his bowling this summer? 😅#ENGvAUS #CricketTwitter #CountyChampionship pic.twitter.com/CXCo9Z9qra
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) June 30, 2023
