Hostile is the right word for the crowd at the Edgbaston cricket ground on the Day 1 of the Ashes 2019. From jibes at the Australian team to hooting at the players to even chanting, “Cheaters”, the crowd had a very hostile reception for the visitors. After winning the toss, Australia elected to bat first only to lose a couple of quick wickets. As soon as David Warner and Cameron Bancroft departed, the crowd hooted at them and gave hostile send-off. They reminded him of the sandpaper gate, the incident happened last year against South Africa in the third test. Steve Smith Mocked by Fans During 1st Ashes 2019 Test; England Supporters Spotted Wearing Masks of Him Shedding Tears After Ball-Tampering Fiasco.

Both Warner and Bancroft were sent-off as the crowd held banners reminding them of the same and while Warner was walking off they were seen waving sandpapers. Steve Smith too was spared as three fans were spotted wearing masks of the Australian with him crying. If one may recall, Smith broke down during the press conference while admitting his mistake. However, the Australian did not let any of this come in his way and carried on with his batting. Despite the fact that the wickets kept falling at the other end, he scored 144 runs and gave a befitting reply to his critics. His innings helped the team reach the respectable total of 284 runs. Australia vs England Live Cricket Score.

Needless to say that his innings impressed everyone and even the netizens hailed the Australian for his gritty knock. Check out a few tweets:

Virender Sehwag.

True fighter.

Class.

Truly a well-deserved century!

Steve Smith notched up his 24th Test hundred to drag Australia out of a hole and help them post 284 on the opening day of the first Ashes Test at the Edgbaston Cricket Ground on Thursday. Smith struck 144 off 219 balls, his majestic knock laced with 16 fours and two sixes, to lift the visitors from 122/8. For England, Stuart Broad grabbed 5/86 while Chris Woakes returned figures of 3/58.

Brief scores: Australia 284 (Steven Smith 144, Travis Head 35; Stuart Broad 5/86, Chris Woakes 3/58) vs England

With inputs from IANS

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 02, 2019 12:08 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).