Ashes 2017/18: 5 Australian players to watch out for

#1 Steven Smith

Steven Smith will be looking to lead by example

Steven Smith is currently the top ranked Test batsmen in the world. If Australia are to stamp their authority on the visitors, a lot will depend on their skipper's form. Smith's captaincy will be crucial and his leadership battle with counterpart Joe Root will be fascinating to watch.

Smith has been the prolific run-scorer for Australia over the past few years. He has amassed 1339 runs at an average of 45 including five centuries against England. With 508 runs, the right-hander was also the highest run-scorer in the last Ashes series.

As stated by Australian coach Darren Lehmann, Smith could be seen bowling leg-break in the series. Since the middle-order batsman's technique is awkward, he often finds scoring opportunities in different parts of the field. If he hits top form, Root's captaincy will be tested.