Smith Lord's it before any talk of the Ashes

STEVE SMITH is not yet giving any thought to this winter's Ashes as he attempts to help Australia retain their World Test Championship crown.

- DAVID CHARLESWORTH

Smith is zoned in on this week's final against South Africa at Lord's, starting today, before Australia head to the Caribbean for three Tests and five T20s.

Smith, winner of the Compton-Miller Medal for player of the Ashes series in both 2017-18 and 2019, said: "The Ashes is a big series but you also can't look too far ahead.

"You've got to keep playing each game as it comes, every game is important with the World Test Championship on the line.