Vaibhav Tripathi
Ahead of the WTC final against India, Steve Smith has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to win, highlighting the exceptional cricket they have played in recent years.
“We’ve obviously played some really good cricket in the last few years to be in this position to play in the final against India, who have also played really good cricket. So, it makes for a good week, but we’re certainly confident that we can win,” Smith told reporters on Monday, June 5.
He also emphasized the significance of the World Test Championship, believing that it adds relevance to the longest format of the game. “I mean it’s really important. I think the World Test Championship now, having the two best teams play in a final, I think’s great. It adds a little bit more relevance I suppose to Test cricket.”
Reflecting on his time in England, Smith spoke positively about his experience of playing for Sussex and the preparations leading up to the final. “It’s been good fun. I’ve enjoyed my time in England so far. It was good fun playing down at Sussex, a good bunch of guys and some really talented players. I enjoyed it, had a couple of good hit-outs and yeah, ready to go now.”
Discussing the Indian team’s bowling attack, Smith acknowledged the quality of their seamers, specifically mentioning Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj, who he believes are well-suited to bowling with the Dukes ball. He also praised their spinners for their effectiveness in all conditions.
“I think they’ve got a good mix obviously of quality seam bowlers. (Mohammed) Shami and (Mohammed) Siraj, probably their two main guys, who have really good skills and I think the Dukes ball suits them nicely. And then obviously their spinners as well, who bowl really well in all conditions. So I think they’re a good attack, and we’re going to have to play well against them this week.”
When asked about the playing surface, Smith mentioned that he had not yet assessed it, but noted that as the match progresses, the pitch may become drier, potentially allowing spin to come into play later on in the game.
“I haven’t had a look at the surface yet, so I probably can’t say too much, but you’re right, usually back into the summer it’s a bit drier. Some spin can come into play, particularly as the game goes on. So, we’ll wait and see what the surface looks like. Go from there.”
Lastly, Smith acknowledged the skills of Scott Boland, stating that if he is selected, his ability to hit a good length and move the ball would challenge the Indian batters. “I think you’ll get what Scotty (Scott Boland) does pretty well. Hits a good length, hits the top of the stump, nips the ball around, can swing it if he wants to and he’s got great skills as well, so no doubt it’ll be a challenge if he gets the nod.”