People talk so much about sledging and stuff but, it is very little that happens in our days: Steve Smith

The rivalry between India and Australia has seen a new course of elevation in recent times. When these two nations lock horns on the cricket field, it’s pretty obvious that a few feathers would be ruffled.

Speaking to the reporters at a virtual media interaction, Australian batsman Steve Smith, who has also been involved in some verbal situations with the Indians, feels 'the days of sledging are past.'

"People talk so much about sledging and stuff. But it is very little that happens in our days. I think probably it has a lot to do with things like IPL that brings together players from all around the world. So for instance if you get stuck into someone one day, you might be playing with them a few days later or a few months later. So it is awkward. Obviously, it doesn't happen so much nowadays," Steve Smith told in a virtual media interaction.

One exciting summer of cricket

"It doesn't hurt (having played them in IPL). (But) international cricket is different. They are all bowling together. They have got a very good bowling lineup. They have proven that over the last few years. It is going to be an exciting summer for us," he said.

On the Indian bowling line-up

"I don't know (which bowler to look forward to). They are all good bowlers. They've got good records and have done well for quite some time. I can't pinpoint any one bowler. You know as a collective we have to play them well," he said.

On the Indian top-order

"Rohit is a tremendous white-ball player. He has proven that for a number of years now. Obviously, he leaves a bit of a hole but with this Indian team, there are so many batters coming around that are high quality. You look at someone like Mayank Agarwal. In the IPL, he smashed runs. KL Rahul can bat at the top," he added.

On Virat Kohli’s absence after the first Test

"There are a plenty of options for them. Look, you will leave a hole no doubt but quality players to back him up. The same is with Virat and the Test squad. There are a number of players there that can come in and do a good job. Virat is of high quality in all forms. He will certainly leave a hole but I still think they have quality batters waiting in the wings to come in and fill that void," said Smith.

India’s tour of Australia will get underway on 27 November with the ODI series followed by T20Is and Tests.