PERTH, Nov. 20, 2025 — Australia captain Steve Smith delivered an unusual dig at former England spinner Monty Panesar ahead of the first Ashes Test in Perth, referencing Panesar’s past appearance on Celebrity Mastermind. The comments came amid renewed tension over the ongoing discussions around the 2018 “Sandpapergate” scandal, in which Smith served a suspension for his involvement in ball‑tampering.
Panesar had recently called on English players and the media to scrutinize Smith’s leadership and suggested that he should “feel guilty” about returning to the captaincy in Pat Cummins’s absence. Instead of addressing the criticism directly, Smith employed humor during a press briefing, referencing Panesar’s infamous quiz show appearance as a means to highlight the contrast between off-field controversies and on-field professionalism.
Speaking to reporters, Smith recounted several of Panesar’s well-known gaffes from the show, describing the segment as “pretty comical” while making it clear that he was not personally affected by Panesar’s remarks. The jab, although delivered lightly, underscored Smith’s ability to maintain composure and a sense of humor in the face of criticism, signaling both resilience and focus ahead of a high-stakes Ashes series.
Analysts suggest that Smith’s comments serve multiple purposes. On one hand, they lighten the mood in a series that is already heavy with historical rivalry and psychological pressure. On the other, they function as a subtle assertion of confidence and authority, reminding both the public and opponents that he remains focused on cricket rather than past controversies. The Ashes series, which holds significant competitive and symbolic importance, has always been about more than just runs and wickets — mental games and leadership presence are crucial.
The upcoming Test in Perth is expected to be closely contested, with Australia seeking to assert dominance on home soil. Smith’s leadership, particularly in Cummins’s absence, will be under scrutiny, and his ability to handle both external criticism and the pressures of captaincy could prove decisive. Meanwhile, Panesar’s comments have sparked debate in England about the ongoing legacy of past scandals and the appropriate ways for retired players to weigh in on current cricket affairs.
Smith’s measured response — combining humor with understated defiance — illustrates the evolving dynamics of high-profile sporting leadership. By choosing to deflect personal attacks with wit rather than confrontation, he reinforces his role as a central figure in Australia’s cricket setup while subtly asserting control over the narrative. Cricket commentators have noted that such psychological management can be as important as technical skill, particularly in a series as emotionally charged as the Ashes.
As the Australian squad finalizes its lineup for the first Test, attention will increasingly turn to on-field strategies and player form. However, off-field interactions, including media exchanges and psychological tactics, are likely to play a role in shaping the series’ outcomes. Smith’s public handling of Panesar’s remarks sets a tone of composure and confidence that may influence both teammates and opponents in the coming matches.