Steve Smith was embroiled in a tense exchange with England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow following the Australian vice-captain’s dismissal on day two of the Headingley Ashes Test.
Australia was 2-72 on Friday afternoon when Smith clipped a half-volley from spinner Moeen Ali towards mid-wicket fielder Ben Duckett, caught for 2.
After commencing his journey back to the sheds, Bairstow was overheard on the stump mics telling Smith: “See ya, Smudge.”
The 34-year-old immediately spun around and barked: “What was that mate?”
When the Yorkshireman didn’t reply, Smith called again: “Hey!”
Bairstow responded: “I said cheers, see ya later.”
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Smith, playing his 100th Test match, registered 22 in the first innings before falling victim to Stuart Broad, edging behind to Bairstow before lunch on day one.
The New South Welshman has been relentlessly heckled by the Leeds crowd this week, with a chorus of boos erupting whenever he walks to the crease.
“It doesn’t bother me. Everyone is entitled to their opinion,” Smith told reporters this week.
“I know the person I am, and how I want to go about things. I’m out here playing my game, playing my game and playing for my country, and I’m proud of that.
“Anyone can say what they like … I’m comfortable in my own skin.”