Ashes 2017: David Saker says Steve Smith wrong not to enforce follow-on in Adelaide Test

Australia took 2-0 lead in the Ashes series.

Australia won Adelaide Test by 120-runs against England | Getty Images

Australia cricket team bowling Coach David Saker, on Tuesday, admitted that Skipper Steve Smith may have erred by not enforcing the follow-on and allowing England back into the game in Adelaide.

With the help of stunning show from pacers, Australia brilliantly dismissed England for 227 on Monday, but Steve Smith decided against sending them back in to bat despite holding a 215-run first innings lead.

Then, England side led by Joe Root wracked the hosts for 138, leaving them with a chance of chasing down a record 354-run victory. Although, the Australian pacers saved the second Ashes Test for the hosts, as the Australian side took a 2-0 lead in the five-Test series by winning Adelaide Test by 120-runs.

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As per AFP, David Saker told reporters, “Steven has obviously made the decision that he felt the guys had bowled enough. In hindsight, we didn't get an opportunity to bowl with the new ball under the lights -- that was our chance. Maybe we got it wrong. At the end of the Test match, we will review that. "But if we come out of this winning the game, which I still think we will, you can say it was justified in some way. Smith did not consult his bowlers before deciding against enforcing the follow-on.”

Commenting on their reviews, Australia lost both of their reviews during England's run chase, Saker said, “He is obviously frustrated at what has happened but I don't think he is really ruing the decision. We got it wrong today without a doubt.”

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He concluded, “It's frustrating to not have any in the bank coming into the last day that is for sure. I think we're still reasonably confident. Obviously, the last two days haven’t quite gone according to plan. We still think we’re in front. Get a wicket in the morning and I think the game changes quite quickly.”

 
 

By Rashmi Nanda - 06 Dec, 2017

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