"Learn something from Babar Azam" - Twitter reacts as Steve Smith fails in 2nd innings of 1st Ashes Test

Steve Smith failed to make an impact for the second time running in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston, Birmingham, as Australia were left in a dicey situation at the end of Day 4.

With Stuart Broad breathing fire, he managed to get the superstar batter to nick behind for just six runs in the extra half hour's play on Monday, June 19. Smith was welcomed to the crease with huge boos from the crowd, which erupted as he was sent packing cheaply.

It is worth noting that Smith boasts a modest record in the fourth innings of a Test, and it didn't take a turn for the better during Australia's chase of 281.

Twitterati had a lot to say after Smith endured a forgettable Test where he managed scores of 16 and 6, having scored twin tons at the same venue four years ago.

Australia need 174 runs on the final day of first Ashes Test

England resumed Day 4 of the 1st Ashes Test with their second innings score reading 28/2. Joe Root wasted no time in upping the scoring rate as he unleashed the reverse lap for fun en route to a solid 46.

Harry Brook and skipper Ben Stokes chipped in with knocks of 46 and 43 themselves, although regular wickets saw the hosts fold for 273.

Having conceded a 7-run lead in the first inning, Australia were set a target of 281 runs to go 1-0 up. David Warner and Usman Khawaja began solidly and shared a 61-run opening stand.

Ollie Robinson had the former nicking behind for 36 before Broad steamed in and removed Marnus Labuschagne for the second time in the match for 13.

Smith followed soon after, as he went fishing at one in the corridor. While Khawaja (34*) survived the rest of the day, night watchman Scott Boland (13*) gave him company.

Australia's score reads 107/3, and with 98 overs scheduled to be bowled on the final day, are still 174 runs adrift of their target. With the weather expected to play a part, it is anybody's guess as to which way the contest is headed.

What do you think will transpire on Day 5 of the Edgbaston Ashes Test? Have your say in the comments section below!

About the author

Sooryanarayanan started off as a non-contracted text commentator at Sportskeeda 3 years ago and is today, the Cricket Commentary Manager. An MBA degree holder, a burning passion for the sport eventually led him to take it up professionally. He also writes insightful Feature pieces from time to time.

Sooryanarayanan sees cricket as a reflection of life’s ebbs and flows, and believes that the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy perfectly showcased it via the determination, courage and the never-give-up attitude displayed on field. He is a staunch Team India supporter and believes that the team has a very bright future. He admires MS Dhoni for how he approaches the sport and life as they come, being unfazed by both victory and defeat.

Sooryanarayanan tries to stick to facts and relies heavily on numerical data to present them. Keeping an objective and neutral view is one of his biggest reporting strengths, along with conducting thorough research and verifying all facts. His exploits in his field have led him to interview some star cricketers like Rovman Powell, Chamari Athapaththu, Deepti Sharma, Grace Harris, Peter Hatzoglou, and more.

When not immersed in Cricket, Sooryanarayanan loves to watch movies and web series, which helps him to focus better when he’s back to work.

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