We were surprised by Stuart Broad's exclusion in Brisbane and Melbourne: Steve Smith

The Ashes has been nothing short of entertainment so far with Australia having won the five-match Test series 3-0 already. The fourth Test will be played at the Sydney Cricket ground(SCG) starting from January 5 and all eyes will be on England’s team selection. So far, it has been a poor performance from England’s batting and bowling departments combinedly and doesn’t look any promising.

Steve Smith, who had a brilliant Ashes last time around in 2018-2019 in England, hasn’t been at his very best yet. He has slipped down to number three in ICC test rankings, but still has a lot to offer for the Australian side. He recently had his views on Stuart Broad missing out on two of the three Tests so far. Stuart Broad and James Anderson at their prime had been one of the best bowling pairs in the history of Test cricket and they will look to bounce back soon.

Broad’s always been a good contest for me: Steve Smith

Smith reckoned that the Australian side was surprised not to see Broad’s name in England’s lineup at the Gabba or Melbourne. England opted for James Anderson, Ollie Robinson, Mark Wood and Jack Leach as their bowling combination for the third Test with Ben Stokes playing the all-rounder role. Smith reminded of the tough battles he had with Broad in Ashes and was hoping to see him back for the fourth Test.

“We have been a bit surprised. Two wickets that would have suited him pretty well. He bowled well in Adelaide. He’s always been a good contest for me. He’s got me out quite a few times, I’ve scored some runs off him so it’s been a decent battle.” former World no.1 Test batsman Steve Smith was quoted by cricket.com.

Stuart Broad’s numbers in the last two years have gone down a bit and are nowhere near his best. His overall numbers still are impeccable, with 526 wickets in 150 Test matches at an average of 27.9. Broad has 18 five-wicket hauls to his name and he can be an unstoppable force once he gets rhythm back. He becomes a nightmare for the batsman when he gets his fast leg cutters going on and should back himself if gets a chance.

“They’ve got quality bowlers. He and Jimmy together are two world-class performers, they have been for a long time. Maybe we’ll see them out here together this week, I’m not sure.” he added