The Indian Cricket Team mindset of letting Ravichandran Ashwin bowl whenever Steve Smith is on the crease has a reason. The spin wizzard has trapped Smith at least 5 times in the Tests and has now revealed that he has figured out Smith's techniques by observing him during the IPL practices. In a recent interview given to 7Cricket, Ashwin praised Smith's techniques but assured to "break it down." In the interview, he said, "Steve Smith is especially fascinating as a player against spin. He has a unique technique, even playing fast bowling. But with spin, I think he came in with sound game plans and sound preparations, and yeah, he used to execute it come what may. And over the years, I've found ways and means to break it down.” IPL Observation led to strategies R. Ashwin shared insights from observing Steve Smith's training routines during their time together at Delhi Capitals and Rising Pune Supergiant in the IPL. "His time at Delhi Capitals, his time at RPSG, all these net sessions that I've seen him go about his business gave me an insight as to how he prepares and what he likes and doesn't like. He's a very thinking cricketer as well. He wants to get one up on you all the time. But he's got unique ways of practicing and battling out with you in the middle.” He described Smith as a strategic cricketer, always looking for an edge with unique preparation methods. Ashwin praised Smith's ability to outthink opponents and revealed that watching his preparation over the years has helped him understand when he has the advantage or when Smith is on top. Despite feeling at a disadvantage at times, Ashwin mentioned that with experience, he has been able to gain the upper hand by understanding Smith's batting techniques. Read: Raman Suggests Tendulkar as Batting Consultant for India Stats of both Ashwin and Smith Australia's Steve Smith has accumulated 9,685 runs in the 195 Test innings he has played since his debut in 2010. The 35-year-old averages an impressive 56.97. Smith has played 19 games against India, playing 37 innings and scoring 2042 runs at an average of 65.87. On the other hand, Ravichandran Ashwin is the second-highest wicket-taker in Tests for India, with 536 wickets in just 105 Test matches. The Border Gavaskar Trophy will start on November 22, with the first Test to be played in Perth.