Steve Smith booed: Australia batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner were booed during their warm-up fixture against England.
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During the ongoing warm-up match for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 between England and Australia at Southampton, Australia batsmen David Warner and Steven Smith were booed and called ‘cheats’ by the English crowd.
After stand-in England captain Jos Buttler won the toss and put Australia in to bat, the senior Australia pair was seen being harshly welcomed by the local crowd.
Warner and Smith received the treatment due to their involvement in the Ball Tampering saga during the tour of South Africa last year. Other than entering the ground, Smith was also booed after he completed his century. With the duo having served their respective punishment, there isn’t much sense in treating Warner and Smith in such a manner.
Warner, who opened the batting with captain Aaron Finch, ended up scoring 43 (55) with the help of five fours. It was Smith who put on display a praiseworthy century to power Australia to 297/9 in 50 overs.
Steve Smith reacts on being booed vs England
Speaking after the innings, Smith sounded contended after playing exceptionally well for Australia. His form has it in it to define Australia’s campaign during the World Cup. “Nice to score some runs out there. Cooked now, big ground, lots of running,” Smith was quoted as saying.
Being asked about the severe criticism on the part of the crowd, a “chilled” Smith seemed unperturbed by the reactions. Instead, he highlighted his innings.
“I’m pretty chilled, everyone is entitled to their opinion. I’m just happy to be back playing and doing a job for my team. I fortunately was able to contribute for the team,” Smith said.
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