While soaking up the skyline from his apartment in New York, far from the chaos of Old Trafford, Steve Smith still couldn’t resist following England’s intense series with India.
Even with the Ashes still months away, the Australian cricket star already had his mind on how things could unfold later this year on home soil.
“It all kicked off last game, didn’t it?” Smith said, speaking with a hint of amusement as he reflected on the drama brewing across the pond.
“The series has been quality—big scores, flat wickets.
But I doubt England will get the same kind of conditions in Australia.”
Smith Warns England to Be Ready for Aussie Pitches
The 36-year-old Aussie knows just how unforgiving the pitches back home can be, especially for top-order batters.
“Australian wickets have had a bit of spice lately, and they’ve been tough, especially up top,” he explained.
“England will need to adjust their mindset when they come down.
I’m curious to see how they handle it.”
With England currently leading India 2-1 and one Test left at the Oval, it’s clear their sights are already drifting toward the Ashes.
But Smith, always one to play the long game, believes it’ll take more than their usual high-risk ‘Bazball’ approach to crack Australia.
A New Look Ashes Could Be the Best Yet
England hasn’t won a Test in Australia since 2011. They drew 2-2 in 2023 and haven’t lifted the urn since 2015.
It’s no wonder the buzz around the November 21 opener in Perth is growing fast.
For Smith, it’s shaping up to be another epic showdown.
“It’s going to be a belter, no doubt,” he said. “Every game in the India series could’ve gone either way, and that’s what makes good cricket.”
Eyes on Joe Root and Jofra Archer
Smith is especially keeping tabs on England’s top man Joe Root, who recently passed another milestone in his already incredible career.
“He’s gone to a new level these past couple of years,” Smith admitted.
“But the one place he hasn’t quite nailed is Australia. No century there yet. I’m sure he’s desperate to change that.”
Another familiar name resurfacing is Jofra Archer.
The fast bowler, who once concussed Smith during the 2019 Ashes, is back in the Test mix—even if he’s sitting out the India finale.
“You want the best on the field,” Smith said.
“It’s good to see him back after everything he’s been through.”
Sharing a Dressing Room with Former Rivals
In a fun twist, Smith will be suiting up with a few of his recent Ashes opponents in The Hundred.
He’s set to play for Welsh Fire alongside Jonny Bairstow and Chris Woakes—two players who could line up against him again this November.
When asked if things might feel awkward around Bairstow, especially after the infamous Lord’s stumping incident in 2023, Smith chuckled: “That should be good,” he said, with a laugh.
“Jonny’s a world-class player. I’m looking forward to it.”
He added that global leagues have made banter less personal these days.
“You might be up against a guy one week and sharing a dressing room with him the next. It’s cool to learn how others approach the game.”
From Test Legend to T20 Globetrotter
Smith’s Test record against England is already legendary—with 12 Ashes centuries, second only to Don Bradman.
But lately, he’s been embracing the T20 circuit more than ever.
“I’ve just come from the West Indies, had a couple of weeks off, and now I’m heading to Cardiff.
I was originally picked by Welsh Fire in 2019, but that didn’t happen. So it’s nice to finally get a go.”
He sees tournaments like The Hundred as more than just fun cricket—they’re a way to grow the game.
“It’s amazing seeing the different crowds, more women and families coming in. Everyone I’ve spoken to says it’s a great competition.”
A New Goal on the Horizon
While many players wind down in their 30s, Smith has a fresh target—the Olympics.
“I stopped playing one-dayers to focus more on franchise cricket.
I really want to get back into Australia’s T20 setup. Playing in the Olympics would be something special.”
And of course, he’s still got plenty of motivation left for the Ashes.
“I’m excited to help Welsh Fire do well, but I’ve also got one eye on November. There’s nothing quite like an Ashes summer.”