Former captain of Australia ricky ponting Has hit hard at England’s fast bowler jofra archer to engage in heated verbal exchanges with steve smith During the final leg of the second Ashes Test at the Gabba. Speaking on Channel 7’s coverage, Ponting argued that Archer’s sudden aggression came ‘too late’ in a contest which Australia had already won easily, taking their series lead 2–0.
A fiery moment between Jofra Archer and Steve Smith
Australia were heading towards victory when Archer bowled a brief but intense spell of short-pitched bowling, accompanied by animated conversation aimed directly at Smith. While the duel excited the spectators, Ponting dismissed the timing of Archer’s fire, insisting that such energy should have been shown much earlier if England hoped to remain competitive.
Ricky Ponting unhappy with Archer’s late outburst
Ponting, known for his sharp cricketing instincts and uncompromising competitive standards, highlighted Archer’s late hostility as the incident unfolded live. Although he admitted that he enjoyed the fight, he questioned the relevance of Archer’s aggression when the match was out of England’s reach.
“I like it, I like it,” Ponting made a sarcastic comment.
“Joffra finally came alive, six days into the series, when the second Test was over – he started chirping. It was too late for that, champ,” he added,
Ponting suggested that it was only after the pressure of the competition was over that England’s frontman began to find both rhythm and voice, highlighting a deeper issue within England’s bowling approach. The animated exchange did not end with Archer’s bouncer barrage. Ponting revealed that Smith had responded with a sharp one-liner on the field that echoed the sentiment in the Australian dressing room.
“Smitty told him the same thing: ‘Bowl fast now, mate, when the game’s over – it’s good’,” Ponting said.
Smith’s sharp response not only neutralized Archer’s provocation but also underlined Australia’s dominance and England’s frustration after another one-sided defeat.
See also: Steve Smith resorted to blinder to dismiss Will Jack in AUS vs ENG second test. The Ashes 2025-26
England stopped scrambling as pressure increased
The Gabba defeat has put England in serious trouble. Having trailed 2-0 in the five-match Ashes series, they now need to win all three remaining Tests to clinch possession of the Ashes – an impossible task given their inconsistent performances so far. Archer, who struggled to make an impact for most of the Test, only showed glimpses of his best in the final overs, raising questions over England’s intensity and planning in both matches.
The criticism of Ponting goes beyond a heated moment. This reflects a broader narrative: England are failing to maintain the pressure, while Australia continue to dominate at key moments through discipline, intent and strategic clarity.
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