Stand-in Australia captain Steve Smith has taken a peculiar dig at former England spinner Monty Panesar ahead of the opening Test of the Ashes series. Panesar, who played 50 Tests between 2006 and 2013, had previously suggested that England should make Smith feel “guilty” about the infamous ‘Sandpapergate’ scandal from 2018. This ball-tampering incident led to Smith’s removal as captain, a topic frequently used by England fans to taunt him.
Smith’s Unusual Jibe at Panesar
During a pre-match news conference, which took place just two days before the start of the Ashes, Smith aimed his comments directly at Panesar’s controversial appearance on the BBC TV show Celebrity Mastermind in 2019. During that episode, Panesar managed only one correct answer in the general knowledge segment, though he did well on the specialist subject of Sikhism, answering six questions correctly.
Pre-Match Dynamics
This jibe was seemingly orchestrated, as Smith received a question about Panesar’s remarks almost immediately after the conference began. “I’m going to go off topic here,” Smith began, referencing Panesar’s Mastermind performance. “If you haven’t seen it, you should, it’s quite comical.” He continued to dismiss Panesar’s comments by referencing incorrect answers that showcased a clear misunderstanding of general knowledge.
Anticipation for the Ashes Series
The first Test of this highly-anticipated Ashes series is set to begin on Friday. Prior to Smith’s comments, players from both Australia and England had maintained a respectful distance from personal hostility. However, media pundits, particularly from the West Australian newspaper, have not hesitated to provoke the visiting England team, labeling them “arrogant Bazballing Poms.”
Smith Filling in for Cummins
Smith’s remarks came as he steps in as captain for regular skipper Pat Cummins, who is unable to play due to a back injury. The dynamics of this Test series have heightened expectations, particularly with Smith’s unexpected focus on Panesar just before such an important match.
- Series: Ashes Test Series
- Location: Perth Stadium
- Start Date: Friday
- Key Figures: Steve Smith, Monty Panesar, Pat Cummins
- Panesar’s Test Record: 50 Tests (2006-2013)
- Celebrity Mastermind Appearance: 2019
In a notable twist, Panesar had previously expressed intentions to enter the political arena in 2024. He aimed to stand as a Member of Parliament for the Workers Party of Britain but withdrew just a week later.
