Australia is currently facing a setback in their second innings as they have lost four wickets, including key players Steve Smith, David Warner, Usman Khawaja, and Marnus Labuschagne.
The match between Australia and England took an interesting turn when a slight altercation occurred between Smith and England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow after Smith was dismissed by Moeen Ali.
Immediately after Smith was caught by Ben Duckett, Bairstow uttered something to him while Smith was making his way back to the pavilion.
Smith appeared visibly annoyed by the comment and even shouted at Bairstow before leaving. The stump mic, as reported by Sky Sports Cricket, captured the exchange between the two players.
Bairstow apparently said, “See ya Smudge,” to which Smith retorted, “What did you say, mate?” followed by an angry “Hey.” Bairstow then clarified, “I said ‘cheers, see you later,'” as Smith continued his way.
Watch Video Clip here:
"See ya, Smudge!" 👋
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) July 7, 2023
"What was that, mate?!? HEY!" ðŸ˜
Jonny Bairstow getting in Steve Smith's head 👀 pic.twitter.com/PyTKFuaC4s
In the ongoing match, Australia finds itself in a challenging situation with four wickets down in their second innings, having lost key players such as Smith, Warner, Khawaja, and Labuschagne.
Earlier in the game, England managed to restrict the damage caused by Australia and limit the first-innings deficit.
Captain Ben Stokes and pacer Mark Wood aggressively attacked the Australian bowlers, resulting in a mere 26-run advantage for Australia. England’s first innings ended with a total of 237 in response to Australia’s 263.
Australian captain Pat Cummins showcased an excellent performance, taking 6-91 in 18 overs and achieving his first five-wicket haul in an English test match.
After the lunch break, England started their innings at 147-2, still trailing by 121 runs. However, the deficit was quickly reduced as Stokes took charge during the afternoon session, progressing from 27 not out to an impressive score of 80, including five sixes and six fours. He was eventually caught by Steve Smith off Todd Murphy’s delivery as the last wicket to fall.
Wood, who had performed exceptionally with the ball, also made his presence felt with the bat, smashing a quick 24 runs off just eight balls, which included three sixes and a four.
Stokes and Ollie Robinson contributed 38 runs for the final wicket partnership, with Robinson remaining unbeaten on 5.
During England’s innings, their key batsmen Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow were dismissed early on, largely due to Australia’s exceptional slip fielding.
All-rounders Moeen Ali and Chris Woakes were also dismissed before the lunch break, with Ali losing his wicket while attempting a pull shot.
Stokes and Ali formed a partnership of 44 runs for the sixth wicket, providing stability to England’s innings.
The match between Australia and England continues to unfold, with both teams fiercely competing for victory.
The altercation between Steve Smith and Jonny Bairstow added an intriguing element to the game, highlighting the intense nature of the Ashes rivalry.
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