Steve Smith, Australia vice-captain, says he is disappointed that he has not taken advantage of two positive starts against Pakistan and scored his first away test century for over two years.
Smith scored 78 in Australia’s first test in Pakistan since 1998. He then made 72 in the epic draw at Karachi.
Smith stated via video conference that Smith was disappointed to have been able to get out. This came as Australia prepares for the final test, which will begin Monday.
“I haven’t been out in the 70s many times in my career, and I believe I’ve got to score more, especially on those wickets.”
Smith seemed set to score his first away century test on a lifeless Pindi Cricket Stadium wicket. However, Smith was caught at the fine leg after top-edging a wild sweep versus Nauman Ali.
He batted at Karachi for 72, in Australia’s first-innings score 556-9. However, he was caught in the second slip by Faheem Ashraf, fast bowler Hasan Ali.
Smith is hopeful that he will be able to score his first test century away in Lahore in a series that has been dominated by batters since he scored 211 in the Ashes Test at Manchester in 2019.
Both teams are likely to be welcomed at the Gaddafi stadium, where there is very little grass.
Smith stated, “Hopefully (I), can get into the same position in this test. Then go on to convert,”
Pakistan’s captain Babar Azam, the captain of Pakistan, led Pakistan to the second test draw. He scored a historic knock of 196 in Karachi after a long time.
Smith stated that Pakistan batted extraordinarily well to remain out there for 172 runs. “It is not often that a team can last this long in the fourth innings, but (but) clearly we weren’t good enough to get all 10 wickets in the end.”
Smith missed a crucial catch by opening batter Abdullah Shafique, who was on 20, and it cost Australia dearly. The batsman would go on to share a double century stand alongside Babar. Smith managed to grab Shafique’s edge from the same position, but the batter had already scored 96.
Smith stated that Australia has been able to move fielders closer to the wicket because of the slow nature.
Smith stated, “It’s been quite a challenge. I’ve never been as close to the bat in any condition.” Smith said that there has been no bounce on the wicket so our plan is to make sure the ball carries as much as we can.
“The reaction time isn’t great. It has been hard to adapt, but we are working on it at training.”
