Steve Smith is all set to lead Australia in the 2nd Ashes Test against England at The Gabba, aiming for a series-defining victory as the teams clash in a high-stakes day-night encounter. (Image Credit:X/ @Auravauraa)
Australia vs England 2nd Ashes Test: As the second Test of the 2025 Ashes series draws near at The Gabba, Steve Smith has made a subtle but telling change, going with dark under-eye strips around the eyes, something he has borrowed from Caribbean legend Shivnarine Chanderpaul. It underlines just how serious Smith is about maximising every possible advantage in a day-night Test under the pink ball, with England’s bowling attack expected to push hard and tricky light conditions likely late in the day.
Steve Smith said the first effort at donning the strips was upside-down - but after a quick word with Chanderpaul, he "put them on the right way" and says the glare reduction was immediately noticeable. According to Smith, the strips now cut out "about 65% of the glare," a potentially decisive factor when the sun sets, and floodlights take over. With a fast-paced, friendly Gabba surface and high expectations after Australia's win in the first Test, Smith wants all the tools necessary to stay focused.
Australia started the series with a comprehensive eight-wicket victory. Smith and his team are aware that one more strong performance at home could place pressure on England and heavily tilt the momentum in Australia's favour. This is a chance, personally for Smith, to reaffirm his credentials as a world-class Test batter in difficult conditions and under modern Test demands.
His adjustments in tactic and preparation speak to the mindset of a veteran-willing to evolve, willing to adapt in his pursuit of excellence. The eye strip is minor compared to bat and pad, but it is symbolic of a certain intent: Smith doesn't want to concede even the thinnest slice of advantage to the opposition.
Australia's team is expected to change. Usman Khawaja has been ruled out following the back problem from Perth, and Josh Inglis is likely to get a look-in as a result. Travis Head may retain his spot as opener after a decent outing in Adelaide.
Meanwhile, Pat Cummins, the pace spearhead who sat out the first game, joined Smith and coach Andrew McDonald for the pitch inspection. Cummins' fitness status is not confirmed yet, although Smith expressed that every option would remain open, pending how he comes through after the warm-ups.
