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As the grand World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 approaches, discussions around conditions and pitch behaviour are intensifying. Both teams have begun sharing insights through media interactions and expert opinions. Among the voices making headlines is legendary Test batter Steve Smith, whose recent remarks have sparked considerable buzz ahead of the big clash.
The high-stakes final is set to unfold at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, a venue traditionally known for assisting pacers early in the match. While spinners may find some support as the game wears on, historical trends suggest that the surface generally offers limited assistance for spin.
Steve Smith hints at unexpected twist in Lord’s conditions ahead of WTC Final
Meanwhile, during a recent media interaction, Smith shared an interesting observation when asked about the pitch conditions. He noted that despite being in England for just a week, the start to the season has been relatively dry—an unusual occurrence for the region. He observed that there hasn’t been much rainfall, which could lead to a dry surface at Lord’s. According to him, as the match progresses, footmarks are likely to play a significant role in influencing the game.
“We have only been here a week, but I think it’s been pretty dry start to the season over here. There hasn’t there been too much rain, which is rare for England. It does look like quite a dry surface and I think the footmarks will definitely come into play as the game wears on,” Smith said during the media interaction.
Also READ: Scott Boland vs Josh Hazlewood in England: Who has the edge ahead of the WTC 2025 Final?
Smith further added that the pitch could be a good one for batting, but conditions might change if cloud cover sets in and the ball starts to swing. He also emphasized that batting on this surface requires assessing the conditions and playing according to what’s in front, with the ability to adapt as the situation demands.
“It can be nice wicket to bat on. But that can change obviously if there is cloud and the ball is swinging around. Batting on this surface is about just summing it up and playing what’s in front of you and being able to adapt accordingly,” he stated.
Smith’s remarkable record at the Lord’s cricket ground
Steve Smith has been the cornerstone of Australia’s Test side for over a decade, consistently scoring runs against all opponents in all conditions. Renowned for his calm temperament and unorthodox batting style, the defending champions will rely heavily on the experienced right-hander. A centurion in the WTC Final 2023, Smith boasts an outstanding record at Lord’s. In nine innings at the iconic venue, he has amassed 525 runs at an impressive average of 58.33. His tally includes two centuries, two half-centuries, and a memorable double hundred during the Ashes.
