Former England Test spinner Monty Panesar has sparked controversy by calling for a coordinated campaign to psychologically target Australian captain Steve Smith ahead of the Ashes series.
The Psychological Warfare Strategy
Panesar, who himself admitted to ball-tampering in his autobiography, has urged the England team and British tabloids to aggressively revive memories of the 2018 Sandpapergate scandal. The former left-arm bowler suggested this approach could undermine Smith's confidence and performance.
"Ben Stokes and the England team have got to make Steve Smith feel guilty and play on that," Panesar told Aceodds.com. "Say something like, 'I don't think it's ethical that he's the captain, I don't think he played the game fairly.'"
The controversial strategy aims to create doubt in Smith's mind about his leadership legitimacy. Panesar believes constant reminders of the ball-tampering incident could make Smith question his position.
Historical Precedent and Potential Backfire
Panesar's approach draws inspiration from legendary Australian captain Steve Waugh's famous "mental disintegration" tactics. However, history suggests this specific strategy might prove counterproductive against Smith.
During the 2019 Ashes series following his suspension, Smith delivered one of the most dominant batting performances in recent memory. Despite facing relentless booing and criticism from English crowds, he amassed 774 runs at an astonishing average of 110.57, helping Australia retain the Urn and earning man of the series honours.
Smith's current form indicates he's already preparing for another strong showing. In three Sheffield Shield innings this season, he's averaging 115.50, having passed fifty every time he's batted.
Call for Media Involvement
Panesar believes the psychological pressure shouldn't be limited to on-field exchanges. He's explicitly called for British media outlets to join the campaign against the Australian skipper.
"This is where the UK media must also focus and put pressure. Use it as a way to help England," he stated. "I hope that England uses it as an advantage and don't just get quiet about it because we know he bats well when he's captaining Australia."
The former spinner argued that Australian media would employ similar tactics if the situations were reversed, suggesting they would label English players as "cheaters" under comparable circumstances.
This provocative approach raises questions about sportsmanship and the boundaries of competitive psychological tactics in international cricket's most storied rivalry.
