Ashes 2025-26: Ricky Ponting slams Jofra Archer for engaging in war of words with Steve Smith in Gabba Test

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has taken a firm swipe at England fast bowler Jofra Archer for engaging in a heated verbal exchange with Steve Smith during the final stages of the second Ashes Test at the Gabba. Speaking on Channel 7’s coverage, Ponting argued that Archer’s sudden aggression came ‘far too late’ in a contest that Australia had already sealed comfortably, extending their series lead to 2-0.

A fiery moment between Jofra Archer and Steve Smith

Australia were cruising towards victory when Archer delivered a brief yet intense spell of short-pitched bowling, accompanied by animated chatter aimed directly at Smith. While the duel excited viewers, Ponting dismissed the timing of Archer’s fire, insisting that such energy should have been shown much earlier if England hoped to remain competitive.

Ricky Ponting unimpressed with Archer’s late outburst

Ponting, known for his sharp cricketing instincts and uncompromising competitive standards, called out Archer’s belated hostility as the incident unfolded live. Though he admitted he enjoyed the battle, he questioned the relevance of Archer’s aggression once the match was beyond England’s reach.

“I like it, I like it,” Ponting remarked sarcastically.

“Jofra’s finally come to life, six days into the series, when the second Test is gone — he starts chirping. Too late for that, champ,” he added.

Ponting suggested that England’s spearhead seemed to find both rhythm and voice only after the pressure of the contest had evaporated, highlighting a deeper issue within England’s bowling approach. The animated exchange didn’t end with Archer’s bouncer barrage. Ponting revealed that Smith had responded on the field with a sharp one-liner that echoed the Australian dressing room’s sentiment.

“That’s what Smithy said to him as well: ‘Bowling quick now, mate, when the game is over — good on ya’,” Ponting said.
Smith’s cutting response not only neutralised Archer’s provocation but also underscored Australia’s dominance and England’s frustration after another one-sided defeat.

Also WATCH: Steve Smith takes a blinder to dismiss Will Jacks in the AUS vs ENG 2nd Test | Ashes 2025-26

England left scrambling as pressure mounts

The Gabba loss has plunged England into a serious predicament. Trailing 2-0 in a five-match Ashes series, they now need to win all three remaining Tests to reclaim the urn—an improbable task given their inconsistent performances so far. Archer, who struggled to make an impact for most of the Test, showed glimpses of his best only in the dying overs, raising questions about England’s intensity and planning across both matches.

Ponting’s criticism goes beyond one heated moment. It reflects a broader narrative: England are failing to sustain pressure, while Australia continue to dominate key moments through discipline, intent, and strategic clarity.

Also READ – Ashes 2025-26: Fans erupt as Mitchell Starc’s all-round heroics helps Australia thrash England in the Gabba Test