Kane Williamson is congratulated by Steve Smith after scoring 140 against the Aussies in 2015.

Australian master batsman Steve Smith has compared himself to Black Caps captain Kane Williamson ahead of the much anticipated test series between the sides.

Former Aussie captain Smith made the comments a few days before the first test - a day-night pink ball fixture - gets underway on Thursday in Perth, where searing conditions are expected to cause cracking in the Optus Stadium pitch.

"I think we actually hold the bat reasonably similarly. He has got quite a closed grip. I like that in test cricket, personally. It just helps playing the ball a bit later and I think he plays it a bit later than anybody else in the world," Smith said.

Despite coming off a below-par series with the bat on home soil against Pakistan, Smith is ranked second on the International Cricket Council's test batting rankings, behind Indian Virat Kohli.

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GETTY IMAGES Aussie Steve Smith pictured at a recent training session.

Williamson, who averages 49.38 and has struck two tons in seven previous tests against Australia, is ranked third best in the world.

"Terrific work ethic and a good eye and plenty of time. I think he has loads of time against quick bowling. He is a quality player and hopefully we can keep him quiet this series," Smith said.

The Kiwis haven't won a test series in Australia since 1985, but Smith said the world No 2 team would represent a huge challenge.

GETTY IMAGES Black Caps skipper Kane Williamson has form behind him heading into the Aussie series.

"They kind of sneak under the radar every now and again," Smith said.

"They've got some quality players and they play well as a team, so we can't take them lightly by any stretch of the imagination.

"Ross Taylor scored some big runs here last time and their bowling attack have been together for a while and have formed a good partnership together."

Optus Stadium curator Brett Sipthorpe has been giving the pitch extra water in a bid to hold it together, but huge cracks are expected for the test.

It's a challenge that Smith is embracing.

"When the cracks come into play, it's something that plays on your mind," Smith said.

"You look down and you see these things. Generally the balls that get you out don't touch the cracks, they're just sort of playing in your mind."

- Stuff and Sydney Morning Herald