Steve Smith to Wear Eye Black Strips in Ashes Test

Australian batsman Steve Smith confirmed on Wednesday that he will wear black eye black strips under his eyes during the second Ashes Test against England, a day-night match starting Thursday at the Gabba in Brisbane. The strips aim to reduce glare from floodlights, helping him track the pink ball more effectively in varying light conditions.

Smith, serving as acting captain in place of the injured Pat Cummins, experimented with the strips during net sessions this week. He sought advice from former West Indies batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul, known for using similar strips throughout his 164-Test career, where he scored 11,867 runs. In a message exchange, Chanderpaul recommended the strips over chalk-based alternatives, noting they block about 65 percent of glare. He also pointed out that photos showed Smith initially applying them upside down. Smith adjusted them accordingly and reported positive results. "I actually messaged Shivnarine Chanderpaul and asked him what his thoughts were, whether he wore the chalk or the strips," Smith said at a pre-match news conference. "He said the strips, and he thinks it blocks out 65 percent of the glare. And he also said, 'I've seen photos...