Brisbane: Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has criticized England fast bowler Jofra Archer following a tense on-field confrontation with Australian skipper Steve Smith during the second Test in Brisbane. Ponting described Archer’s actions as “embarrassing” for both himself and the England team.
The incident began when Smith attempted a daring shot over the slip cordon, prompting Archer to respond with verbal jabs. The stump microphone captured exchanges between the two, including Archer’s remark, “Likes to play shots when there’s not much on the scoreboard,” and Smith’s retort, “You bowl fast when there’s nothing going on, champion.”
Ponting, who was commentating on the match, said Archer failed to deliver the pace and intensity England needed during a crucial period, particularly as Australia was chasing a modest target. He added that the incident, while dramatic, highlighted the excitement and intensity of Test cricket but reflected poorly on the English bowler’s performance.
“I could hear what Smith said over the stump mic, and it fired me up,” Ponting said, “but Jofra’s actions embarrassed both himself and his team.”
