Fri Dec 05 07:30:00 UTC 2025: News Article:

Milwaukee Connection Helps Steve Smith Tackle Pink Ball Glare in Ashes Test

Brisbane, Australia – Australian cricket star Steve Smith is set to sport baseball-style “eye black” stickers during the upcoming day-night Ashes Test at the Gabba, thanks to an unlikely connection to the Milwaukee Brewers. Smith sought a solution to combat glare from the pink ball under lights.

The quest began with veteran spinner Nathan Lyon, who, through his work with differently-abled cricketers, connected with Sean Walsh of the Australian Deaf cricket team and media manager for the Brisbane Bandits baseball team. Walsh leveraged the Bandits’ 30-year partnership with the Milwaukee Brewers to acquire the specialized stickers.

Shaun O’Brien, a former Milwaukee Brewers clubhouse attendant and now executive officer of the Brisbane Bandits, facilitated the request, sourcing the eye black from a local baseball goods store. Initially unaware of Smith’s fame or the nuances of day-night Test cricket, O’Brien was surprised by the widespread attention the story received.

Smith’s teammates, including Marnus Labuschagne, have embraced the new look, with Labuschagne even jokingly referring to Smith as “Shivnarine,” in reference to Chanderpaul, who was known for sporting eye black. Smith immediately noticed a difference, exclaiming, “I can actually see the ball!” after using the stickers. He even joked about securing sponsorship deals.

The eye black, commonly used in baseball to reduce glare, appears to be giving Smith an edge. The baseball-inspired accessory is set to add a unique American flair to the Ashes series, with Smith bringing a touch of “Brewer Fever” to the cricket pitch. O’Brien commented on Smith’s success using the stickers “So this guy really is a big deal.”

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