Overview
- At his Perth press conference, Smith dismissed Panesar’s call to target him over Sandpapergate by referencing the ex-spinner’s error-strewn 2019 Celebrity Mastermind appearance.
- Smith’s remarks drew laughter as he cited answers including “Athens” for Germany, “Oliver Twist” as a season, and “America” as a city.
- With Pat Cummins injured, Smith confirmed he will lead Australia in the opening Test against England in Perth.
- Smith announced an XI that includes Doggett over Michael Neser as Josh Hazlewood’s replacement and Weatherald as opener, with Marnus Labuschagne back at No 3 and Beau Webster omitted.
- Panesar had urged England’s players and media to make Smith feel “guilty” about the 2018 ball-tampering scandal, a tactic some reporters suggested may have irked the Australian star.