Smith spoke of his delight at his side's plan for Bairstow coming together when the wicketkeeper played a poor shot and was dismissed, but Root said it will spur England into life. And well, if that's (Smith's laughter) not motivation to the players, I don't know what is - seriously," Root said, before insisting that England would not be stooping to Australia's level. Asked if the hosts had overstepped the mark in Brisbane, Root said: "I think it's something you expect when you come here now. "I read the article and it's interesting coming from Jimmy, calling us bullies and big sledgers," Smith told reporters. Root, meanwhile, added that Moeen Ali may play as a specialist batsman if he is unable to bowl because of a finger injury.

Source: The Telegraph December 01, 2017 21:11 UTC