Monty Panesar and Steve Smith found themselves in an unexpected confrontation ahead of the Ashes series. Smith, the Australian captain, brought up the infamous ‘Sandpapergate’ scandal during a press conference, drawing attention to Panesar’s prior remarks on the matter.
Panesar had suggested that Ben Stokes and the England team should psychologically target Smith by questioning his ethical conduct as captain. Smith, responding to Panesar’s comments, diverted the conversation by referencing a TV show and downplaying the impact of the remarks on him.
Following his involvement in the 2018 sandpaper scandal in South Africa, Smith was temporarily removed as Australia’s captain. Now reinstated for the upcoming Test in Perth, Smith leads the team in place of the injured Pat Cummins.
Panesar, a former England spinner with a significant cricket career, responded to Smith’s remarks, pointing out that everyone makes mistakes, albeit in different contexts. Panesar notably appeared on a quiz show in 2019, facing challenges in the general knowledge round.
The Ashes series commences in Perth, with England likely opting for a pace-heavy bowling attack. Despite including Shoaib Bashir in the squad, the off-spinner is expected to sit out of the playing XI.
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