\u201cHe (Stokes) has done a terrific job with England over the last couple of years,\u201d Smith said on the eve of the first Test. \u201cPotentially, he\u2019s someone who you don't want to get riled up. He has had a few performances against us where he's either taken the game away from us or pulled it back (for England). He's a quality performer, whether it's bat, ball, or in the field. He's always in the game, giving his 110%. Hopefully, we can keep him quiet.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
England enter the series with growing confidence under the Stokes-Brendon McCullum leadership, known for its aggressive cricketing philosophy. Smith acknowledged the challenges of countering England\u2019s high-tempo approach.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"I think it's just playing the tempo of the game that needs to be played at each certain time,\" he said. \"I've no doubt throughout this series, there's going to be periods of the game where a few of their batters get off and they score some runs quickly. And for us, it might be about being a little bit defensive in those moments. And then finding the moments where we can attack a bit more and just playing the game, really, that's in front of us, and not letting it drift too far.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Australia will also hand debuts to Jake Weatherald and Brendan Doggett in the series opener, with Weatherald set to partner Usman Khawaja at the top. Smith said the 31-year-old left-hander has earned his Baggy Green through outstanding domestic form.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI watched him bat in the nets pretty closely the last few days. They are pretty tricky nets \u2013 fast, bouncy, and a lot of seam,\u201d Smith noted. \u201cThe guys were charging in and bowling really fast (in the nets). He took it on and got in really good positions\u2026 He has been selected for his performances in the last 18 months in particular. He has batted exceptionally well at the top of the order for Tasmania, and hopefully he can bring that to the Test arena.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI'm really excited for him, and he has worked hard for a long period of time, and he is going to complement Usman Khawaja pretty well up top,\u201d he added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Australia have won four of their five Tests at the Perth Stadium but suffered a defeat to India in their last appearance. Smith believes conditions will be favourable but insists adaptability will be crucial.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIt looks like a good wicket. Looks pretty similar to last summer. It's going to have some decent pace and bounce in it. It's probably not as hot as it was last year, so potentially may not crack up as much as it did,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Australia have won four of their five Tests at the Perth Stadium but suffered a defeat to India in their last appearance. Smith believes conditions will be favourable but insists adaptability will be crucial.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
With sold-out crowds for the opening three days, Smith said the anticipation around the series adds to the excitement. \u201cI think it's a great venue. I'm super excited that the first three days are sold out. This series has been on people's radar for a long time. I think it's a nice place to start the summer.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n