Smith backs calls for Ashes 'tradition' to be scrapped

Australian super star Steve Smith has backed calls for a day-night Test to be dropped from future Ashes series.

Earlier this week the British media reported that the ECB and Cricket Australia were discussing the notion of all future series in Australia consisting of five red ball Tests during day-light hours.

While the decision may not sit well with broadcasters, it is understood there is no contractual obligation to deliver the pink ball format and the plan is for it to be scrapped before the 2029/30 series.

“I'm not a big fan of the pink ball, I can't see the thing very well,” Smith said when asked about the proposal.

“I don't think you need it in an Ashes series. “I think we saw the crowds that we got throughout the series out here in all the red-ball games. We broke attendance records.

“So, yeah, not sure you need it. “I’m more than happy (for it to be scrapped), but I don't think I'll be around for that.

“On the right wicket, I think it works. Adelaide's a good place for it; the wicket's a bit of a featherbed so it keeps the ball together pretty well.

“It's an interesting one. It's such a different game.

“If you get on the right side of things in terms of when you're batting and when you're bowling, the game can turn really quickly, so I'm not a big fan of that. But I think it's got a place somewhere.”

Pink ball Tests have been a regular fixture in Australia for the last decade and with 14 wins out of 15, it suits the Aussie team whereas for England, it has been a nightmare with four losses in four attempts.

Smith is not the only player looking to see the back of the pink ball with England Joe Root not a fan.

“I personally don’t think so,” he said before the Gabba Test when asked if a series needed it. “It’s obviously very successful and popular here, and obviously Australia have a good record. You can see why we’re playing one of those games.

“Ultimately, you know from two years out it is going to be there. It’s part and parcel of making sure you’re ready for it. A series like this, does it need it? I don’t think so … but it doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be here either.

“I don’t mind it. I mean, I don’t think it’s as good as traditional Test cricket. But it’s in the schedule. We’ve got to play it and just got to make sure we’re better than them at it.”