‘He’s got five centuries in him’ – David Warner warns England with bold Ashes prediction | Cricket News

Former Australian opener David Warner has predicted Steve Smith will dominate the upcoming Ashes series against England, forecasting five centuries for the veteran batter this summer. Warner’s comments came after Smith scored a commanding 118 for New South Wales against Queensland at the Gabba, following his brief break in New York.Smith’s impressive 176-ball innings, featuring 20 fours and a six, helped New South Wales reach 349/5 at stumps on Day Two of the Sheffield Shield match.Also watch:

Warner, speaking on Fox Cricket on Wednesday, expressed confidence in Smith’s form ahead of the Ashes.“If that man Steve Smith can score big runs (this summer), they’ll be fine. If Smith gets on a roll and he starts scoring runs, it’s going to be a challenge for England.”Warner believes Smith could finish his career as Australia’s second-best batter behind Sir Donald Bradman.“I reckon he’s got five centuries in him. He only had one (net session) the other day and came out and scored a hundred today; that’s Steve Smith.”Smith’s recent century brings his Test total to 36, just five behind Ricky Ponting’s Australian record of 41. Despite retiring from ODIs earlier this year, Warner believes Smith’s fitness and drive will sustain his career.“The one thing missing from him is winning in India. He knows his body now, he knows what he’s capable of – if he wants to get to that Indian series, he will.”Indian cricket legend Ravi Shastri praised Smith’s adaptability and leadership capabilities, as he prepares to lead Australia in Pat Cummins‘ absence.“What’s always amazed me about Steve… is his ability to adapt to different conditions and improvise, even in the middle of a series, sometimes in the middle of an innings. (Captaincy) will get the best out of him, that’s for sure. He’ll be tuned on, absolutely.”Warner highlighted Smith’s continuous drive for improvement.“He’s still learning. If he’s still learning, god help everybody else.”The first Ashes Test between Australia and England is scheduled to begin at Perth Stadium on November 21. Smith currently holds an impressive average of 112.28 as captain in Ashes contests.