Australia's stand-in captain, Steve Smith, has spoken out following a tense confrontation with England's fast bowler Jofra Archer during the decisive final session of the second Ashes Test at the Gabba in Brisbane.
Gabba Victory Seals Commanding Lead
The incident occurred as Australia chased down a modest target to secure an emphatic victory, placing them on the brink of retaining the Ashes with a 2-0 series lead. England, set 334 to win, were bowled out for 241, leaving the hosts needing just 64 runs for victory. Australia reached the target with ease, finishing on 41-2 before Smith's explosive intervention.
Coming to the crease with the game in the balance, Smith unleashed a brutal assault, smashing 23 runs from just nine deliveries. His innings included two colossal sixes and two fours, with 15 of those runs coming from the five balls he faced from Archer.
Heated Exchange Fuels On-Field Drama
The flashpoint came during a fiery over from Archer, visibly frustrated after being dispatched to the boundary by Smith. The Australian skipper responded in the most emphatic fashion, launching the next ball over the rope for six. When pressed post-match on what was said during the exchange, Smith remained coy, stating: "That stays on the field. It was good banter. He's a good competitor and comes hard at you so it was good fun."
The moment highlighted England's struggles with the pink ball and a bowling attack that failed to replicate their early-series form. Archer's frustration was symptomatic of a broader issue for the tourists, who had earlier seen a magnificent 134 not out from captain Joe Root in their first innings surpassed by Australia's total of 511, built on significant contributions from Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Alex Carey, and Mitchell Starc.
Smith's Blitz Seals the Deal
Explaining his aggressive approach, Smith said: "It just felt right to play a few shots. He was obviously bowling quick and I thought I'd hit a few up and try to get hold of a couple. I tried to finish it quick. There's a bit of a storm coming round so wanted to get it done by playing a few shots."
He also praised his team's resilience, particularly the lower order's first-innings batting which lasted for 53 overs, a effort that he credited with getting Australia ahead in the game. While he acknowledged a late partnership from England's Ben Stokes and Will Jacks, the damage had been done.
The result leaves England in a must-win situation heading into the third Test in Adelaide, which begins on December 17. Anything less than a victory for the tourists will see Australia retain the Ashes urn.
