Ashes 2023: 'What's that?!' Steve Smith baffled and unimpressed on Jonny Bairstow’s attempted sledge

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Ashes 2023: Jonny Bairstow's attempt to sledge Australian batting mainstay Steve Smith during the second Ashes 2023 Test failed after the latter failed to get the reference which was being used to make fun of his unusual mannerism.

On a day which saw England skittle from their overnight score of 278/4 to 325 all-out, the sledging attempt from the hosts also misfired. Australia were 130/2 and leading by 221 when rain played spoilsports and washed out the majority of the final session on Day 3.

However, England's final attempt to get under Australia's skin also failed before the covers were brought on. Smith, who scored a hundred in the first innings, was welcomed with a few chirps from wicket-keeper Bairstow shortly after his arrival.

After letting a James Anderson delivery go through into the gloves of Bairstow, the right-hand batter did his usual uncanny shuffle back into his crease. Smith's fidgety movements while batting for long hours in Test cricket are known to everyone now. While Commentators have found them amusing, the rivals have found it frustrating, especially with Smith amassing heavy runs against them.

On Friday, Bairstow got the opportunity and quipped, "I reckon you’re the next on Strictly Australia”.

Unaware of the context, Smith was left wondering and ended up asking "What's that?"

Bairstow: “Bit of dancing for you”.

Smith: “Wouldn’t have thought so”.

The reference Jonny Bairstow was trying to give was of a dancing show which is known Down Under as 'Dancing With the Stars'.

Unhindered, Smith went back to the pavilion unbeaten on six. The star batter has already scored two hundreds in the Ashes 2023. On Saturday, he would be looking to confirm Australia's second consecutive win in the 5-Test series.