Former England wicketkeeper Matt Prior says Jamie Smith needs to enjoy being the “heartbeat” of the England team and be ready to fight as they try to come back from 2–0 down in the Ashes.
Smith hasn’t been performing well recently, scoring under 33 in his last eight Test innings and making mistakes as wicketkeeper, including dropping Travis Head in the second Test.
Prior explained that the wicketkeeper is the “heartbeat” on the field because they help the captain and bowlers with tactics, rhythm, and planning. He said Smith needs to stop overthinking his own game and focus on supporting the team during matches.
Prior believes that England need a sharp, confident Smith if they want to turn the Ashes around. He says the best thing Smith can do is prepare well, accept that mistakes happen, and then focus on helping the bowlers and organising the field.
Former Australia wicketkeeper Ian Healy added that Smith also needs to contribute tactically and be a vocal presence behind the stumps, especially with the strong form of Australia’s Alex Carey putting extra pressure on him.
