Smith proves a smash hit ahead of bigger Tests

FAMOUS for health-benefit salts and horse racing’s Derby, Epsom may soon become inextricably linked to a rising England cricket star.

- By Keith Webster

Jamie Smith’s rapid 64 at The Oval on Tuesday, where he plundered 10 fours and three sixes in just 28 deliveries, set England on course for a cruise to victory against West Indies in the final ODI.

Once the T20 series finishes on Tuesday, Smith will switch focus to the daunting Test campaign against India, who are still a huge threat despite the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, above. Smith’s Test career so far constitutes three matches against each of West Indies, Sri Lanka and Pakistan, plus one against Zimbabwe.

India will represent a significant upgrade in quality of opposition, with Australia to follow this winter.

In particular, he is aware that someone who has not retired, and who will bring his bowling special sauce to England, is Jasprit Bumrah.