The Ashes Test matches have always been known for their captivating moments, and the ongoing first Ashes 2023 game between England and Australia at Edgbaston in Birmingham proved no different. From remarkable batting and splendid bowling performances to engaging fan interactions, the Ashes series continues to enthral audiences worldwide.
One such moment occurred on Day 4 during Australia’s fielding in the second innings when the crowd playfully teased Australian cricketer Steve Smith near the notorious Eric Hollies stand. The English fans started chanting a song, reminiscent of the sandpaper incident, to remind Smith of the ball-tampering scandal that unfolded in 2018.
The chant echoed throughout the stadium as the crowd sang, “Cry on the telly, we saw you cry on the telly.” This chant alluded to Smith’s emotional press conference following the scandal, where he apologized tearfully to the public and media for his involvement.
Here is the video:
The best sports crowds are English or Aussie pic.twitter.com/X6SLVJFzLY
— Nikhil Mehra (@TweetinderKaul) June 19, 2023
Shifting the focus back to the game, Australia managed to dismiss England for 273 runs in their second innings, setting themselves a target of 281 runs for victory. England fought valiantly with valuable inputs from Joe Root (46), Ben Stokes (43), and Harry Brook (46), although none of them managed to surpass the fifty-run mark individually.
Aussie captain Pat Cummins played a pivotal role by claiming four wickets in just 18.2 overs, while veteran spinner Nathan Lyon also contributed significantly with a four-wicket haul in 24 overs.
At the close of play on the fourth day, the Australian team concluded their chase at 107/3, with Usman Khawaja, who scored a century in the first innings, remaining unbeaten on 34 runs. With one day remaining in the match and seven wickets still in hand, Australia now need 174 runs to secure a victory.