Ravichandran Ashwin gets into a new Lafda with Steve Smith before Border-Gavaskar Trophy

The fans will yet again get to enjoy the tactical duel between Ravichandran Ashwin and Steve Smith in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Ahead of the high-profile Test series, the Indian spinner shared intriguing insights into his approach to outsmarting the Australian batting icon.

Ravichandran Ashwin, known for his clever approach, revealed his strategy for getting the batter of Steve Smith. The Indian off-spinner noted that the Australian batter’s distinctive techniques in facing both spin and pace have kept him on his toes.

Epic Ravichandran Ashwin-Steve Smith rivalry set to unfold again in Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

Smith’s ability to craft sound, methodical plans against spin bowlers has long made him a formidable opponent, but Ashwin, with his keen observational skills, has spent years figuring out ways to disrupt the Aussie batter’s strategies in Test cricket.

Also Read: Ravichandran Ashwin dented massively vs Nathan Lyon as he steps foot in Australia

Reflecting on his battles with Smith in both international fixtures and IPL matches, Ashwin highlighted how watching the right-handed batter’s training and on-field encounters has provided him valuable insights into his preferences, strengths, and potential weaknesses.

Furthermore, Ravichandran Ashwin stressed that facing Steve Smith is more than a physical contest, saying it’s a mind game where they try to outsmart each other. The former Australian captain’s unorthodox methods in practice and his relentless determination to dominate opponents are well known.

Steve Smith is fascinating as a player against spin: Ravichandran Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin said in a video posted by 7Cricket on X: “Steve Smith is fascinating as a player against spin, especially. He has a unique technique, even playing fast bowling. But with spin, I think he came up with sound game plans and sound preparations, and he used to execute them come what may.

And over the years, I have found ways and means to be able to break it down. His time at Delhi Capitals, his time at RPSG, all these net sessions that I have seen him go about his business, really gave me an insight as to how he prepares and what he likes and what he doesn't like.”

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I think Smith is a very thinking cricketer: Ashwin

However, the Indian spinner is always adapting, taking mental notes, and constantly tweaking his approach to gain a subtle edge over Smith. In another clip, Ashwin said, "I think Smith is a very thinking cricketer. He wants to get one up on you all the time. But he's got very unique ways of practicing and unique ways of battling out with you in the middle.”

Ashwin signed off by saying, “And sometimes, as a bowler, when you're watching a batter go through his process, you do identify whether you have him or not. And several times in these years of having played with Steve Smith, I've felt that he has me. But several times much later, when I think I've kind of figured out what he does or how he bats, I've had an edge over him; I've had the wood over him.”

Fascinating to hear Ashwin talk about the battle he has with Steve Smith 🍿 #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/gn0emBtCSR

— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) November 13, 2024

Well, Ashwin and Smith both are considered to be two of the modern-era greats, and it would be interesting to see how they employ their mind games in the upcoming five-match Test series, starting on November 22 at the Optus Stadium in Perth.

Speaking about Ashwin’s Test record in Australia, the Indian off-spinner has claimed 114 wickets in 22 matches at an impressive average of 28.36, conceding just 2.70 runs per over.

On the other hand, Smith has been a standout performer against India, amassing a massive 2,042 runs, with nine centuries and five half-centuries to his name, including a top score of 192, in his 19 Test appearances.