AUS vs IND: Smith reveals why he wants to adopt a proactive approach vs Ashwin

Australian batting stalwart Steve Smith has set his sights on neutralizing Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who has posed a formidable challenge ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The five-match Test series begins on November 22 in Perth, and Smith is determined to adopt a more proactive approach against his long-time rival.

In Short

• Steve Smith aims to tackle Ashwin proactively in Border-Gavaskar Trophy
• Ashwin dismissed Smith multiple times in recent series
• Ashwin claims to have 'figured out' Smith's batting style

Australian batting maestro Steve Smith plans to take a proactive approach against Ravichandran Ashwin in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, aiming to overcome the challenges he faced against the Indian spinner during the 2020–21 series.

Ashwin has been a thorn in Smith’s side, dismissing him three times during the 2020–21 series and twice more during their most recent face-off in 2023. Reflecting on his struggles, Smith acknowledged Ashwin’s skill and tactical nous.

"I don't like getting out to off-spin in Australia. But he's also a very good bowler, and he came in with some decent plans," Smith told the Sydney Morning Herald. "There were a couple of occasions where he got on top of me."

Smith, however, drew confidence from his performance in Sydney during the 2020-21 series, where he scored 131 and 81 by adopting a more assertive approach. "That's key for me—just be proactive against him and not let him settle and bowl the way he wants to," he said.

The duel between Smith and Ashwin has been a highlight of recent Border-Gavaskar contests. Ashwin, who has a modest bowling average of 42.15 in Australia compared to an impressive 21.57 at home, recently claimed that he has "figured out" Smith. "I think I've kind of figured out what he does or how he bats. I've had the wood over him," Ashwin told Channel Seven.

Smith, however, brushed aside Ashwin’s remarks. "When you have five matches, if someone gets on top early, they could have 10 innings against them. You're facing those mental challenges each game," Smith said. "There's nowhere to hide in five games like there is in a two-game series."

Smith emphasized the importance of a strong start, particularly as he returns to his favored No. 4 position after a brief and unsuccessful stint as an opener earlier this year. With just 315 runs needed to reach the milestone of 10,000 Test runs, the 35-year-old is keen to set the tone early in the series.

"It always makes your summer better when you start well. It gives you a lot of confidence," Smith said. "It's about not overthinking things. When I'm playing my best, I'm not overthinking and just playing what's in front of me."

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy promises to be a spectacle, with both teams boasting world-class players and fierce rivalries. For Smith, the series is not just a personal battle but also a test of adaptability and resilience. "It's going to be a good battle," Smith concluded, as the cricketing world eagerly awaits another chapter in his storied rivalry with Ashwin.