Ashes 2019: 1st Test – Smith, Wade tons put Australia in command on Day 4
Steve Smith once again grabbed headlines as Australia edged ahead on Day 4 of the first Ashes Test in Edgbaston. Australia put the foot down on the pedal, first consolidating and then pushing England on the backfoot. Matthew Wade, who too struck an exciting century, ably supported Smith at the other end. Australia will now aim to unleash a flurry of attacks on Day 5, hunting England down who could activate survival mode. England have a highly improbable target of 398 to chase. Fans across the world will wait with bated breath as an emotionally charged final day unfolds at Edgbaston.
For Steve Smith, Christmas comes early
After stroking masterful centuries in both the innings of the match, Smith described the feeling as Christmas coming early. In the post-match conference, he said:
“I love Test cricket and I love playing against England. I’ve loved these last four days. It’s felt like Christmas morning every morning.”
With his sensational comeback, Smith has shown just why he is regarded as one of the greatest batters in the longest format of the game. While his first century showcased solid mental fortitude, his 142 in the second innings was proof of how he could adjust the tempo masterfully according to the situation. With the kind of form he’s already in, some of the English players may be quaking in their boots thinking about what lies ahead.
Australian lower middle order steps up
Prior to the series, Australia’s lower middle-order didn’t seem to inspire much confidence. Travis Head lacked experience. Matthew Wade was making a comeback after a long time. Skipper Tim Paine was yet to convince with the bat. All three stepped up to the challenge on Day 4. Head curtailed his natural attacking instincts to score a battling half-century and gave able support to Smith. Wade then walked in to bat and was aggressive from the word go. His brilliant century helped Australia to really up the ante and accelerate. Paine helped continue the momentum after Smith was dismissed, scoring a quickfire 34. The tail also wagged, with James Pattinson and Pat Cummins making handy contributions. Heading into the second Test, the Australian batting order looks much more formidable.
Will England display grit?
England have been trying to implement a gradual overhaul of their philosophy. This has worked wonders in the shorter formats, where they have become world-beaters. The same philosophy has seen the likes of Jason Roy, Jos Buttler and Jonny Bairstow being welcomed in the Test squad. But on Day 5, the English batters will have to display some good old fashioned grit and grind it out. Joe Root has shown throughout his career that he is up for a challenge. Rory Burns also showcased flashes of it in the first innings. But will the likes of Roy, Buttler and Bairstow step up and curb their natural instincts? We will have to wait and watch.
