I Thought I Managed To Play Him Really Well - Steve Smith On Facing Ravindra Jadeja In India In 2017

Veteran Australian batsman Steve Smith has shared his experiences playing against spinners on different surfaces and countries. The right-handed hitter, who is an expert on the subcontinent, offered his thoughts by bringing up Australia’s 2017 tour of India.

Smith will take part in the two-Test series against Sri Lanka to get revenge for Australia’s 3-0 thrashing there in 2016. The 33-year-old, who served as skipper during that tour, was the top batter for the guests. He scored 247 runs while averaging 41.16.

Smith told Cricbuzz that the ball that is skidding produces more difficulties than the one that is spinning away. The New South Wales batsman expressed on the 2017 series in India when he avoided being defeated on the inside by Ravindra Jadeja.

“Normally, it spins too fast and travels too far. I believe it was the way I played Jadeja in 2017. I thought I played him well, content with being beaten on the outside while avoiding being beaten on the inside (edge of the bat). That is significant to me. But everyone’s techniques are unique, which adds to the game’s excitement” Smith said.

Steve Smith discusses his preparations for the upcoming India tour:

When asked if the next India trip was already on his thoughts, Smith responded that it was all about adjusting as the match progresses to various circumstances. Added him:

“You certainly do not adjust your playing style all that much. There are a few parallels. Some wickets spin and possibly bounce a little bit more. There are variances as well. When a field is playing one way, you play that way; when it is playing another way, you play that way; and when it is spinning slightly, you try to adjust to those conditions.”

Australia will play a four-match Test series in India in February 2023. In 2017, the right-handed batsman had an effective tour of India. Despite Australia closely losing the series, he scored 499 runs at 71.29 in four Tests.

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