Jamie Smith feels his recent experience opening the batting during England’s ODI series against the West Indies has been invaluable in preparing for the challenging Test series against India. At The Oval, Smith struck a rapid 25-ball half-century, marking his first in ODI cricket, as England secured a seven-wicket victory.
Discussing the benefits of facing top-class opening bowlers, Smith commented, “There’s an opportunity there to go and play, and experience opening when the ball is still swinging and nipping around against quality bowlers. It’s definitely great practice [for the India series]. It feels like we’re close to it now, we’re almost there.”
Over the three matches, Smith maintained an impressive strike rate of 180.35, registering scores of 37, 0, and 64, contributing to England’s 3-0 series sweep. Since his Test debut last summer, taking over from Jonny Bairstow, Smith has been a consistent presence in England’s ODI squads.
Though Smith won’t feature in the upcoming T20I series, with Phil Salt returning from the IPL, Smith values the break before the India Tests commence on 20th June. Reflecting on his current form, he noted, “I feel good. Hopefully, the next 10 days or so can go well, prep-wise, and we can head into [the] India [series] quite fresh, which is amazing.”
Smith is yet to face India’s formidable pace bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, and he intends to approach this challenge with a cautious strategy. “Hopefully, down at No. 7, I can watch other lads go and face him first,” he said, acknowledging the task ahead.
Balancing cricket and family life, Smith, who became a father in December, plans to skip watching the upcoming World Test Championship final. “I’ll have enough to do at home to keep me busy and entertained. I’ll be trying to stay away and hopefully get myself mentally and physically in a good place for once the Test series starts,” he explained, aiming to maintain his fitness and focus throughout the series.
Looking forward, England’s schedule includes a potentially career-defining series of Tests, with an Ashes series in Australia following the India contests. “We’re playing the two best nations,” Smith remarked, “It’s always going to be talked about. The key for us is focusing on one game at a time. Everyone knows the magnitude of what’s coming up, but if we can stay in the present, it’s a good time to test ourselves against the best.”
With an informed and excited squad, Smith is eagerly anticipating the challenges ahead, feeling optimistic about England’s prospects in these tough encounters.
