Perth, Nov 20, 2025

Australia’s stand-in captain Steve Smith has identified England captain Ben Stokes as the “man to keep quiet” as his side gears up for the opening Test of the Ashes at Perth Stadium on Friday. With regular skipper Pat Cummins injured, Smith will lead Australia for the 41st time in Test cricket and is acutely aware of the threat England’s talisman poses.

“He (Stokes) has done a terrific job with England over the last couple of years,” Smith said on the eve of the first Test. “Potentially, he’s 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%. Hopeful

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