MONTY PANESAR reckons Steve Smith “wasn’t himself” in Perth after their mutual mud-slinging on the eve of the Ashes. Smith taunted Panesar over his calamitous Celebrity

The 25/26 Ashes series is still in its infancy, but already on the first day, the England fans have picked one of their targets and are going after Australia 's stand-in skipper, Steve Smith. No surprise there. Smith led the Baggy Greens out for the first Test in Perth, with usual captain Pat Cummins missing through a back stress injury.

Australia's Ashes campaign began unusually as Usman Khawaja was prevented from opening due to not meeting on-field time requirements. Despite this setback, Smith and Labuschagne weathered England's persistent bowling attack momentarily before the hosts suffered a collapse.

In the 2017-18 Ashes, Steve Smith scored 687 runs in seven innings at an average of 137.40, marking an explosive peak.

Ashes hostilities kicked off early this year, with a feud between Steve Smith and former England star Monty Panesar erupting with the Australian captain being labelled a "cheat".

The Australian cricket star is looking to lead his side to glory in The Ashes but already has lots to keep him busy away from the pitch