Jamie Smith thanks mentor Ian Bell after his first international score

In the opening Test match at Emirates Old Trafford versus Sri Lanka, young player Jamie Smith scored his first century for his country. Following his assumption of command, Smith reduced the hosts to 125/4 and enabled England to grab a 122-run advantage in the opening innings. England scored 358 runs in the opening innings thanks to the partnerships he forged with Chris Woakes, Harry Brook, and the tailenders.

Notably, despite having Jonny Bairstow and Ben Foakes in the mix, the club management continued to have faith in Smith. It paid off, as the batsman-keeper played well against the West Indies and now scored a century against the Lankan Lions. He has demonstrated incredible maturity, which will probably help him secure a berth on the Test squad.

Subsequent to his century, Smith expressed his gratitude to mentor Ian Bell for his support throughout his tenure with the Lions and Birmingham Phoenix. Before games, the 24-year-old said Bell would act as a throwdown specialist and impart his experience, which has improved him.

“Over the past few years, Belly has been a huge assistance to me, both with the Birmingham Phoenix and the Lions. I am much obliged to him for the knowledge he imparted and for his willingness to hurl balls at me prior to games when I was watching the Test series. I suppose it’s fantastic when people are prepared to support you and be in your corner even when they are on the other side. Smith was cited as adding, “I was appreciative of his assistance.”

Jamie Smith will be a top-tier player for England: Ian Bell

Following the century, Bell praised Smith and predicted that he will be a premier player for England in the future. Bell discussed how Smith’s grind has helped him adjust to playing international cricket, even though the former cricket player acknowledged that he may have had a minor role in Smith’s development.

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“He will play for England for a very long time as a world-class player.” He is class, and it is now our responsibility to figure out how to let him go in this series. I think I contributed a little to his progress, but I’ve seen someone who has put in a lot of effort. He’s adapted to international cricket effortlessly, according to Bell.