The Ashes 2025-26: Smith falters as England's pace attack tests Australia on day one
England's pace-led plan unsettles Steve Smith in Perth, marking an unusually uneasy start for Australia’s batting icon in the opening Ashes Test.
England vs Australia
England's pace-led attack aimed at disrupting Steve Smith paid early dividends on day one in Perth, as the Australian batting great produced an uncharacteristic innings.
The right-hander, a fixture of Ashes battles for a decade and a half, managed only 17 before being dismissed at slip by Harry Brook off Brydon Carse, after facing 49 balls with 12 plays and misses.
England sought to target the channel just outside Smith's body, a tactic that yielded a rare stutter in his usually fluent technique. The day also highlighted the bounce-friendly Perth pitch and England's plan to rely on pace to test Smith's concentration.
Smith's average in that problematic zone has slipped this year, underscoring a potential vulnerability even in his long Australia career. Yet the sample is small and the series long — nine more chances await the 34-year-old.
Commentators noted the psychological pressure of media scrutiny and the Ashes spotlight, which appeared to unsettle a player long known for steady temperament.
What this means for the series
England's fast-bowling unit showed the value of variety and precision, forcing Smith to adjust mid-innings and giving Australia a tougher path to a competitive total.
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- Published 16 August
Smith's stumble on day one underlines England's intent to exploit weaknesses with pace, signaling a closely contested Ashes ahead.
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