Smith targets ‘bucket list’ Ashes sequence win on seemingly last tour of England
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teve Smith has set his sights on a “bucket list” away Ashes win as he targets a repeat of his 2019 heroics on what is going to seemingly be his last tour of England.
Smith, extensively thought-about one of many best Test batters of all-time, was the participant of the sequence as Australia retained the Ashes in England 4 years in the past, however Tim Paine’s facet missed out on a well-known win after the hosts took the Fifth Test on the Kia Oval to depart honours even in a 2-2 draw.
Australia haven’t received in England since 2001 and at 34, having already hinted at retirement, Smith is unlikely to return to those shores in the summertime of 2027.
“Ashes series are what you’re judged on, and the big series that you want to do well in,” Smith stated. “Last time we came over here, we came close to winning the Ashes. Next best thing was drawing it, and we certainly did that.
“It’s something I’ve always wanted to tick off my bucket list in my career, so I’m just excited for the next couple of months.
“It’s a huge part of [my motivation]. Personally, I’d love to tick it off my bucket list. I know it’s the same for a lot of the other boys in the room. We’ll give it a good hot crack over the next few weeks.”
Despite lacking the well-known Third Test at Headingley with concussion, Smith loved one of many all-time nice sequence in England in 2019, making 774 runs – greater than 300 greater than some other participant – at a mean of 110.57.
That run included a double-hundred at Old Trafford that all-but ensured Australia would retain the Urn, however started with twin a whole lot within the sequence opener at Edgbaston, the batter’s first Test outing since coming back from a year-long ban for his half within the ‘Sandpapergate’ scandal.
“That Test match was probably my favourite out of my career so far given the circumstances and the importance of the first Ashes Test, particularly away from home,” he added. “So coming back here I’ve got some wonderful memories and some things I can draw on.
“However, I know it’s a new series, a new year. I can draw on those experiences, but not read too much into it. Ultimately it’s another game.”