Ricky Ponting explains viral commentary moment during Jofra Archer and Steve Smith’s fiery Gabba exchange

During the recent Test match at the Gabba, a notable interaction occurred between Australian cricketer Steve Smith and England’s bowler Jofra Archer, which attracted significant attention. As the match concluded, tensions flared as Archer bowled aggressively, prompting Smith’s response while Australia was chasing the remaining runs.

Ricky Ponting, former Australian captain and commentator, provided commentary during the incident and later reflected on his reactions. He noted Archer’s sudden aggression after several days of play and criticized the timing and effectiveness of Archer’s efforts. According to Ponting, Smith had verbally pushed back, pointing out that Archer was only now showing intensity when the match was nearly over.

Ponting also shared that he reacted to what he heard Smith say to Archer, which added to his emotional response during the commentary. He expressed a longing to have participated in such intense moments during his playing career. In separate commentary, former cricketer Matthew Hayden criticized Archer for his behavior and its implications for team morale.

Both commentators remarked on Archer’s approach during the match, which reportedly did not align with the expected intensity needed to compete effectively against Australia in an Ashes series.