Former England cricket star Monty Panesar has responded to remarks made by Australia captain Steve Smith ahead of the Ashes series. Panesar and Smith engaged in a verbal exchange before the First Test in Perth, where England faced a quick defeat in just two days.
Following the loss in Perth, Ben Stokes and the England team have moved to Brisbane for the Second Test at The Gabba. Panesar had advised England to use the ball-tampering scandal of 2018 as a tactic to unsettle Australia and gain an advantage.
In response to Panesar’s comments, Smith brought up Panesar’s appearance on BBC’s Celebrity Mastermind in 2019 during a press conference. Smith humorously referenced Panesar’s quiz answers to jest about the situation.
Panesar has now reacted to Smith’s comments by expressing surprise at Smith’s knowledge of his quiz answers. Panesar mentioned the satisfaction of being able to affect Australians even from a distance. He also highlighted the subdued reaction of the British media to his remarks on the ball-tampering incident and speculated on its potential psychological impact on the ongoing series.
Reflecting on Smith’s performance in the First Test, Panesar noted a shift in the Australian captain’s usual batting demeanor, suggesting that external factors might have played a role. Panesar praised Smith’s cricketing abilities and strategic acumen while emphasizing the importance of psychological tactics in the upcoming matches.
In a recent interview with BOYLE Sports, Panesar shared his insights on the ongoing Ashes series and the dynamics between the two teams. The second Ashes Test match is set to begin soon, with cricket fans eagerly anticipating the action between England and Australia.
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