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Steve Smith joins Sussex on a three-match deal in preparation for this year’s Ashes series… but England fans are NOT happy with the County Championship squad: ‘Why are we helping their players? ‘
- Australia got a boost ahead of this year’s Ashes in England
- Guns hitter Steve Smith has joined Sussex to take a look at enemy soil
- However, the Poms are not happy that a rival is being helped in preparation.
- Some fans called on the ECB to end Smith’s three-game deal
Australia have received a boost ahead of this year’s Ashes series after Steve Smith struck a deal with the Sussex County Championship side.
The 33-year-old Smith has signed a three-match contract and will feature for the team against Worcestershire, Leicestershire and Glamorgan, hoping to factor him in ahead of the five-test series against England.
Sussex Cricket CEO Rob Andrew said: ‘We are delighted to have Steve Smith available for our County Championship matches in May.
Steve Smith agreed to join Sussex on a three-match deal ahead of Ashes
“Possibly having the best batting play in the world for Sussex just before a long-awaited Ashes Test series is great for us and the County Championship.
“To be able to attract a player of Steve Smith’s caliber is a huge statement and will be of great benefit to our young local players, particularly our generation of talented young hitters.”
However, England fans are far from impressed that a county team is providing vital preparation for a rival player ahead of the Ashes.
‘Why are we helping your players?’ a fan posted on Twitter.
England fans were furious at Sussex for helping an Australian player prepare for the Ashes
Another said: “Would an Australian state team allow Root to play a few warm up games before Ashes down under to warm up?”
“Traitors,” wrote a third. Absolutely embarrassing.
A fan asked the ECB to intervene and stop the deal.
‘Absolutely ridiculous. The ECB must stop this.