Steve Smith has thrown his support behind boycotting pink-ball Tests for future Ashes series, joining England’s push to steer away from day-night fixtures.
Reports emerged this week that England officials were looking to avoid playing in the pink-ball match next time they arrive in Australia for the 2029/30 series.
England do not use the pink ball in their home summers, which means the next Ashes campaign in the middle of next year will not feature that format.
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However, the 150th anniversary one-off Test between Australia and England, scheduled for March 2027 at the MCG, will be played with the pink ball.
Speaking to media ahead of the Sydney Smash between the Sixers and Thunder on Friday night, Smith conceded he was on board with the stance from England – even if he won’t be around to witness the potential change in almost four years’ time.
Jofra Archer and Steve Smith faced off under lights at the Gabba. Getty
“I’m not a big fan of the pink ball, I can’t see the thing very well,” he said.
“I don’t think I’ll be around for that [in 2029]. For those that like the pink ball it’s a bit of a shame I suppose, but I don’t think you need it in an Ashes series.
“We saw the crowds that we got throughout the series out here in all the red-ball games, so I’m not sure we need it. Maybe there’s a time and place, I’m not sure.
“I saw a couple of the English guys throughout the series… were saying we probably don’t need it for an Ashes series and they’re probably right.”
One player who would want to keep the pink-ball Tests going is Mitchell Starc, who has an incredible record since its inception – but Smith doubts he will have to worry.
Starc is about to turn 36 years old, and said this week he has no plans to still be playing cricket when he turns 40.
“I don’t know if Starcy will be around then, so he’s probably not too worried,” Smith said.Â
Steve Smith speaks to media. Nine
Smith, the 36-year-old who captained Australia in four of the five Tests this summer, was also quizzed about his future and his desire to play in England next year.
Smith said it comes down to his hunger and form, with age not a concern.
“(My decision will be based on) whether I still want to be playing and performing well, it’s as simple as that,” he said.Â
“Age is just a number. If you can do your job and you’re still the best at it, everything else is irrelevant in my opinion. It only helps having experience in big games.
“That showed throughout the Ashes. We had an experienced squad and experienced players know how to win big moments and we did that better than England.”