R Ashwin Eager To Tackle The Steve Smith Challenge During BGT, Says He 'Found Ways To Break It Down'

With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy rapidly approaching, fans will be eager to see how their favourite teams do. A lot of pressure will be put on specific cricketers who have yet to deliver huge knocks and are expected to do so in the highly anticipated Test series. R Ashwin, in particular, is excited to be a part of the series, and he hopes to dismiss his nemesis, Steve Smith, as they add another chapter to their exciting rivalry.

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R Ashwin Eager To Duel Against Steve Smith, Reveals He Has A Strategy To Dismiss Prolific Batter 

During an interview with 7Cricket, R Ashwin spoke on facing Australia star Steve Smith at the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy and shared some insights on their intriguing rivalry over the years. The veteran disclosed that it would be easier for him to deconstruct Smith's game plans because they had previously spent time together in the IPL with teams like the Delhi Capitals and now defunct Rising Pune Supergiant.

"Steve Smith is especially fascinating as a player against spin. He has a unique technique, even playing fast bowling. But with spin, I think he came in with sound game plans and sound preparations, and yeah, he used to execute it come what may. And over the years, I've found ways and means to break it down.

"His time at Delhi Capitals, his time at RPSG, all these net sessions that I've seen him go about his business gave me an insight as to how he prepares and what he likes and doesn't like," Ashwin expressed.

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The Smith-Ashwin duo will be in action against each other at the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, starting on November 22 at the Optus Stadium in Perth. Ashwin also praised his ferocious opponent for being a 'thinking' cricket player.

"He's a very thinking cricketer as well. He wants to get one up on you all the time. But, he's got unique ways of practising and battling out with you in the middle. And sometimes, as a bowler, when you're watching a batter go through his process, you do identify whether you have him or not. And several times in these years of having played with Steve Smith, I've felt he has me.

"But several times, much later, when I think I've figured out what he does or how he bats, I've had an edge over him. I've had the wood over him," Ashwin added.

[With PTI Inputs]