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

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has taken a strong swipe at England’s fast bowler Jofra Sagittarius 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 ‘way too late’ in a match that Australia had already closed out comfortably, extending their series lead to 2–0.

A fiery moment between Jofra Archer and Steve Smith

Australia were on their way to victory when Archer delivered a brief but intense spell of short-pitched bowling accompanied by animated chatter aimed directly at Smith. While the match electrified viewers, Ponting dismissed the timing of Archer’s fire and insisted such energy should have been shown much earlier if England hoped to remain competitive.

Ricky Ponting was unimpressed by Archer’s late outburst

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

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

“Jofra finally comes to life, six days into the series, when the second test is over – he starts whistling. It’s too late for that, champion,” he added.

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

“That’s what Smithy said to him too: ‘Now go bowl fast, mate, when the game is over – well done’,” said Ponting.
Smith’s sharp response not only neutralized Archer’s provocation, but also underlined Australia’s dominance and England’s frustration after another one-sided defeat.

WATCH also: Steve Smith takes a blinder to deny Will Jacks in the AUS vs ENG 2nd Test | Ash 2025-26

England remained in turmoil as the pressure mounted

The loss of the Gabba has left England in a serious situation. Trailing 2-0 in a five-match Ashes series, they now need to win all three remaining Tests to reclaim the urn – an unlikely task given their inconsistent performances so far. Archer, who struggled to impress for most of the Test, only showed glimpses of his best in the latter stages, raising questions about England’s intensity and planning in both matches.

Ponting’s criticism goes further than one heated moment. It reflects a wider story: England failing to keep up the pressure, while Australia continues to dominate key moments through discipline, intent and strategic clarity.

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