Australian cricket star Steve Smith has confirmed a unique tactical change for the upcoming day-night Test at the Gabba, taking direct inspiration from West Indies batting great Shivnarine Chanderpaul.
Smith Seeks Advice from a Legend
Acting captain Steve Smith revealed he will sport anti-glare patches, known as 'eye blacks', during the second Test against the West Indies in Brisbane. The decision came after Smith personally reached out to Chanderpaul, who famously wore the black strips throughout his illustrious career.
"I actually messaged Shivnarine Chanderpaul and asked him what his thoughts were, whether he wore the chalk or the strips, he said the strips," Smith explained. The West Indies legend not only endorsed the move but also provided crucial technical feedback.
The Pink Ball Problem
Smith's adoption of the stickers is a direct response to his well-documented struggles against the pink ball used in day-night matches. The 36-year-old has averaged a modest 37.04 in 13 day-night Tests, a significant drop from his extraordinary career average of 58.31 against the traditional red ball.
"Personally, I find it quite tricky just picking the ball up at certain times of the day," Smith admitted, highlighting the unique challenges posed by the pink ball's visibility and behaviour.
Correcting the Technique
Chanderpaul's advice went beyond mere approval. "He said it blocks out 65 per cent of the glare, and he also said, 'I've seen photos, and you're wearing them the wrong way'," Smith shared. After adjusting the application based on this feedback during net sessions, Smith was convinced. "Yesterday, I put them on the right way, and I agree with him. I certainly think it stops the glare. I'll be wearing them."
While common in American football, these adhesive strips have been a rarity in cricket outside of Chanderpaul's iconic look. Smith hopes they will mitigate the glare from stadium lights and improve his sighting of the pink ball under the Gabba's floodlights.
The move underscores Smith's relentless pursuit of technical edges, even as he acknowledges the enduring challenge of day-night cricket for batsmen. With the Gabba day-night Test looming, all eyes will be on whether this piece of sporting heritage can help one of Australia's modern greats conquer his pink-ball puzzle.
