LONDON: Steve Smith insists Australia’s batsmen will be ready for their do or die Champions Trophy showdown with England despite their lack of action in the tournament.

Smith’s side endured the frustration of having Monday’s clash with Bangladesh abandoned due to rain, just days after their opening fixture against New Zealand was also washed out.

On both occasions, it has been Australia who were batting in the early stages of their innings when bad weather ended play.

With two points from their two matches, Australia will have to beat hosts England on June 10 to reach the semi-finals.

“I think it makes the equation pretty simple for us,” Smith said. “We have to beat England and then I think we’re through.

“I haven’t really read into anything else that’s happened. I guess we’ve just got to beat England.”

In the circumstances, Australia could have done with their batsmen being in good form before the crunch encounter with their old rivals.

But, asked if their lack of time at the crease could undermine them against England, Australia captain Smith said: “I’m sure they will be okay.”

Published in Dawn, June 7th, 2017

Opinion

Editorial

Out of control
Updated 19 Feb, 2025

Out of control

AS bodies continue to fall in Kurram despite a state-sanctioned ceasefire, one wonders how long local militants’...
Hollow words
19 Feb, 2025

Hollow words

IT is not uncommon for politicians to resort to the use of hyperbole in order to boost their public standing. ...
Migration matters
19 Feb, 2025

Migration matters

THE grass, it seems, did appear greener on the other side to millions of people as evidenced by the latest UN ...
Cholistan project
Updated 18 Feb, 2025

Cholistan project

GPI goals align with Pakistan's broader economic aims but the manner in which the initiative was launched raises questions.
Right to know
18 Feb, 2025

Right to know

IT is an unfortunate paradox that while on paper Pakistan has some of the most impressive right to information laws,...
Dam dispute
18 Feb, 2025

Dam dispute

THE situation in Chilas needs attention and a fair-minded approach so that it can be resolved amicably. Diamer ...