Steve Smith ready to fire: Rogers

You’re wrong.

Chris Rogers and Peter Siddle had a simple response when pressed about Graeme Swann’s recent questioning of Steve Smith.

Smith has climbed to No.1 on the International Cricket Council’s Test batting rankings after a sensational run of form.

However, former England offspinner Swann suggested the in-form batsman “must have surprised himself, as well as everyone else, with his output”.

“I don’t think he’ll score runs at three if it’s swinging,” Swann added, questioning Smith’s technique.

Rogers was recalled to the Test side for the 2013 Ashes, when Smith first started to turn potential into performance.

The 37-year-old couldn’t disagree more with Swann’s assessment.

“I’m pretty sure he’s going to come out and show everyone just how good he is,” Rogers said of Smith.

“He has the desire and he’s going to prove to people he’s one of the best in the world.

“I’ve been watching him develop over the last couple of years and I think he can deal with anything.”

Rogers admitted his side had a few issues with the swinging ball during their most recent visit, when a collapse of 8-56 in Manchester ensured England won the series.

“But I look at the guys now and see completely different players,” the veteran opener added.

“You only have to look at the confidence Steve has now compared to back then.

“It’s chalk and cheese.”

Siddle agreed, noting Swann hadn’t changed much since his playing days.

“When he was out on the field he liked those little jibes,” Siddle said.

“If he looks at stats over the last couple of years, he’ll see Steve Smith is the best batsman in the world.”

Meanwhile, England coach Trevor Bayliss will start his new job later this week with a team camp in Spain.

“I’ll get to know the players, number one … apart from that, a little bit of planning before the Ashes,” Bayliss told Fox Sports at Sydney airport.

“I’m confident of putting up a good show.”

Rogers suggested he was a little jealous of England’s upcoming sojourn, while Nathan Lyon quipped his side aren’t here to go sunbaking.

“They can enjoy their time there on a holiday while we’re preparing to take the Ashes home,” Lyon said.

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