ANNIHILATION ENDS IN ASHES
Smith calls for same XI
STEVE Smith has implored selectors to keep the faith for next year’s shot at a droughtbreaking Ashes victory in England, starting with backing Cameron Bancroft for the tour of South Africa.
The Australian captain yesterday gave the out-of-form Bancroft the strongest endorsement to be retained to take on the Proteas in March, but Smith makes no secret that he has his eye on a bigger prize.
Australia has not won an Ashes series in England since 2001 and Smith is confident the team that dismantled England 4-0 this summer – culminating in yesterday’s innings and 123-run win at the SCG – has what it takes.
Ricky Ponting and Michael Clarke’s touring teams failed to cope with the moving ball in 2005, 2009, 2013 and 2015, but Smith says his side can adapt to all conditions.
After Australia’s four main bowlers remarkably ended up with at least 20 wickets each in the series, Smith went into bat for the team’s only poor performer – opening batsman Bancroft.
He said the 25-year-old must be shown some faith in the build-up to the return Ashes series.
Selectors will sit down in the next fortnight to pick a 15man squad for the four Tests in South Africa and, if Smith’s vote of confidence is anything to go by, Bancroft will open the innings against the Proteas’ powerful attack.
“He’s worked hard and probably hasn’t scored as many runs as he would have liked throughout this series,” Smith said yesterday.
“But he’s a good young player, he’s a great character and he’s got a terrific work ethic. The more he plays he’s going to continue to improve.
“If the selectors keep the faith – and I hope they do – it’ll be good for him and good for the group.
“The cricket we’ve played has been great. The more we play together, the more we’re going to get better as a group.
“England in 2019, it is a long way away, but it’s a real challenge for us and a bucket list of mine to win an Ashes series in England.”