Former Australian captain Ricky ponting England took a solid beating in the fast bowler Jofra the archer to engage in a heated verbal exchange with Steve Smith During the closing stages of the second Ashes Test at the Gabba. Speaking on Channel 7’s coverage, Ponting claimed Archer’s sudden aggression came ‘too late’ in a contest in which Australia had already comfortably sealed a 2-0 lead.
A fiery moment between Jofra Archer and Steve Smith
Archer cruised to victory where he delivered a short but tight spell of bowling accompanied by animated chatter aimed directly at Smith. Duel excited spectators, Ponting dismissed the reading fire, insisting that such energy was shown long ago as England hoped to be competitive.
ricky ponting subtly affected by Archer’s late exit
Ponting, known for his keen cricketing instincts and uncompromising competitive standards, invoked belated hostility as the incident unfolded. Although he admitted to enjoying the fight, the match questioned the relevance of the archer’s aggression once England were out of reach.
“I like it, I like it” Ponting remarked sarcastically.
“When Jofra finally gets going in the second test, six days in a row, six days in a row – he starts cracking when he croaks. Too late for that, Champ,” he added.
Ponting found both the rhythm and the voice of the England spearhead after the evaporation highlighted a deeper problem within England’s bowling approach. The animated exchange didn’t end with Archer’s Bouncer Barrage. Ponting revealed that Smith responded to the field with a sharp undertone that mirrored the feel of the Australian dressing room.
“That’s Smithy and you said to him: ‘The game’s quick, mate, when the game’s over – Ya’ well.’ Ponting said.
Smith’s cutting reply not only reflected the derangement of the neutralized bowler, but also Australia’s dominance and England’s frustration after another side’s defeat.
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England left scrub as pressure units
The loss at the Gabba put England in a serious situation. Going 2-0 up in the five-match series, they now need to win all three remaining Tests to pull off an Urn-incredible feat given their inconsistent performances so far. The archer, who struggled to make an impact for most of the Test, only to die, raising questions about England’s intensity and planning in both matches, showed the best of the best.
Ponting’s criticism goes beyond a heated moment. Reflects a wider narrative: England not keeping up the pressure, Australia continuing to dominate at key points through discipline, intent and strategic clarity.
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