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Stokes: Smith & Root, Generation's Best
20 Nov
Summary
- Stokes hails Smith and Root as the best batsmen of their generation.
- Smith averages 59.70 against England at home.
- Stokes emphasizes silencing Smith for Ashes victory.
England captain Ben Stokes has lauded Steve Smith and Joe Root as the greatest batsmen of the current generation. Ahead of the Ashes opener, Stokes emphasized the critical importance of neutralizing Australia's star batsman, Steve Smith. Smith has a formidable record against England on home soil, averaging an imposing 59.70. Stokes acknowledged the challenge of quieting such a skilled player but stated it is essential for England to achieve their goal of winning the Ashes.
Smith is set to captain Australia again in Pat Cummins' absence, marking his third stint leading the team this year. His captaincy record is exceptional, with an average of 68.98 in 40 Tests as skipper. Despite a break from the bat, Smith recently scored a century for New South Wales, indicating he is in good form and feeling relaxed about the upcoming series.
Stokes recognizes Smith's consistent ability to score runs, even against England. He views both Smith and Root as being neck-and-neck in their generational status as batters. The England captain believes that while shutting down the entire Australian batting lineup is a monumental task, focusing on and limiting Steve Smith's contribution would significantly improve England's chances of success in the highly anticipated Ashes contest.
