Australia cruised to a 275-run victory in the second Test at Adelaide to grab a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. England has struggled on both of their recent tours to Australia, losing a 4-0 series in 2017-18 after a 5-0 thumping in 2013-14.

When asked if the thought of another Ashes whitewash encouraged his teammates, Smith told the BBC, “We’d love to.”

“But we’ll take it one game at time at moment. That’s all we can do.”

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The hosts would “love to wrap the Ashes up” in the third Test at Melbourne, which begins on December 26, but will “need to play some good cricket do so,” according to stand-in captain Smith..

“It’s great to be 2-0 up and hopefully we can continue this momentum into what should be an amazing Boxing Day Test match,” he added.

“England are a good side but we haven’t really let them back into the contest yet. We have been in front in both games and not let them back in.

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“From our point of view that’s what we want to do, keep driving forward and not let England take back any momentum at all.”

After skipper Pat Cummins was forced out of the match due to coming in close contact of someone who tested positive for COVID-19, Smith led Australia at the Adelaide Oval. 

Despite Jos Buttler’s heroics on the final day, Batter Smith stated he was unconcerned about England’s defiance. 

Buttler lasted 207 balls for 26 runs, giving England a small chance of pulling off the most implausible of comebacks, before being out struck wicket after standing on his stumps.

“I wasn’t getting nervous just yet. We had them eight down, Stuart Broad was at the other end,” said Smith.

“It was bizarre the way Jos stepped on his stumps. He was trying to get off strike that ball, things turned out well. He played well – not the traditional Jos we have seen in the past.

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“He played nicely and his defence was really good and he gave England a bit of a sniff.”

Smith also advised Australia’s bowlers not to allow England captain Joe Root to settle into a rhythm at the crease at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, as Root’s search for an Ashes century in Australia continues.

“Cameron Green is the only one with that extra bit of bounce who has been able to unsettle him,” he added.

“Joe has looked good each time he has come out to bat. We are going to have to continue to keep the pressure on him, because he’s a quality player.”