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Steve Smith mocks 'Baz-ball' after England cricket hype

Steve Smith (pictured left) laughs and (pictured right) Ben Stokes enjoys his team's cricket series win over India.
Steve Smith (pictured left) isn't buying into the hype of 'Baz-ball' under the new direction of cricket coach Brendan McCullum and new captain Ben Stokes (pictured right). (Getty Images)

Steve Smith has enjoyed a laugh at England's hype over 'Baz-ball' after Ben Stokes and Brendan McCullum have led the nation to a number of sensational cricket victories.

England made history by hunting down a record target of 378 against India at Edgbaston - thanks to a stunning stand of 269 between centurions Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow.

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The duo also helped steer England to victory in exciting style in just 76.4 overs.

England also chased down totals of 277, 296 and 299 against New Zealand last month, which has sparked hype around how the nation are tackling targets.

The introduction of New Zealand great McCullum has reinvigorated the team.

While McCullum has warned England are only getting started, Smith isn'y buying into the hype just yet.

"I've watched a little bit of it, it's certainly been entertaining," Smith said, ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka.

"I'm just intrigued to see how long it lasts, if it's sustainable.

"If you come on a wicket that's got some grass on it and Josh Hazlewood, Cummins and Starc are rolling in at you, is it going to be the same?

"We'll see what happens."

Australia excited for Ashes after 'Baz-ball' hype

Smith will have his answer next year, when Australia attempt to win their first Ashes series in England since 2001.

But regardless, Bazball has already become the talking point of Australia's Test camp in Galle.

Players have jokingly yelled the phrase out on playing an aggressive shot in the nets, while also keeping an eye on England's chases back at the team hotel.

England's golden summer has also helped return Joe Root to No.1 spot in the Test rankings, off the back of two centuries in his past three Tests.

Australia warm-up during training ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka.
Australia warm-up during training ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka. (Photo by ISHARA S. KODIKARA/AFP via Getty Images) (ISHARA S. KODIKARA via Getty Images)

The tons also took him to 28 for his career and above both Smith (27) and Virat Kohli's 27 on the all-time hundreds charts, with Smith eager to point out the former England captain has had more time to do so.

"He's played a few (35) more Tests than me as well!" Smith said.

"But it's great seeing other batters do really well around the world, playing different conditions.

"He's swept so well, he's got the courage to reverse lap them over the slips. He's a quality player and looks like he's pretty tough to get out at the moment."

with AAP

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