Bodyline Strategy Expected Against Smith
Former Australian cricketer Simon Katich has made a bold prediction about England's likely approach to handling Steve Smith in the upcoming Ashes series. The 50-year-old former batter stated he would be surprised if England doesn't employ intimidatory tactics similar to the infamous Bodyline series against the Australian batting maestro.
New Zealand's Blueprint for Success
Katich pointed to New Zealand's effective use of the short ball against Smith during their 2019 tour of Australia as the template England might follow. Neil Wagner's persistent short-pitched bowling resulted in Smith's dismissal four times during that series, demonstrating the potential effectiveness of this approach.
The former opener specifically mentioned how the Kiwis deployed fielders strategically whenever Smith came to the crease. "I hate to use the word 'Bodyline' but that's exactly what it was, really," Katich told BBC Radio 5 Live's Ashes preview show.
Historical Context and Modern Application
The Bodyline tactic originated during England's 1932-33 tour of Australia, where bowlers targeted batsmen's bodies with short deliveries. While the modern game has different rules and protections, the strategic principle remains relevant.
Katich emphasized that England's current pace attack, under the leadership of Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum, possesses even greater firepower than New Zealand had at their disposal. "Albeit not the same pace as England have got up their sleeves," he noted, suggesting the English bowlers could execute this plan more effectively.
The first Ashes Test begins on November 21 in Perth, with Smith leading the Australian side in the absence of regular captain Pat Cummins, who aims to return for the second Test. England last won the Ashes in Australia during the 2010-11 series under Andrew Strauss, securing a 3-1 victory in the five-match contest.
