Steve Smith Aims to Fire Again After Subpar Year After Below Average 2023
Steve Smith, fresh off his World Cup victory with Australia, is eager to put a disappointing year behind him. Despite his recent success on the international stage, Smith acknowledges that his individual performance has fallen below his own high standards.
Determined to rediscover his batting prowess, Smith has been diligently working with coaches in Perth, fine-tuning his technique and searching for that elusive big score. The 34-year-old veteran believes he’s on the right track, stating, “I feel like I’ve found a nice sort of tempo in the last couple of days. Feel like I’m in quite a good place.”
Smith attributes part of his struggles to the demanding and continuous cricket schedule of 2023. Recognizing the need for a mental and physical break, he welcomed the time off after the World Cup, allowing him to “just have a week at home and relax and try and refresh the mind and body as much as possible.”
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Despite whispers of retirement, similar to teammate David Warner, Smith assures that he has no immediate plans to hang up his bat. He remains passionate about the game and intends to continue playing as long as he enjoys it.
“I just take it day by day and enjoy my time playing,” he stated, “and while I’m enjoying it I’ll keep playing. Yeah, I’m not in any hurry to make any decision.”
With a renewed focus and a positive mindset, Smith is determined to silence his critics and prove that he still has plenty left in the tank. The upcoming first test against Pakistan will be a crucial opportunity for him to demonstrate his intent and begin reclaiming his place as one of the world’s best batsmen.
Australia Squad for First Test Against Pakistan
Captain: Pat Cummins
Batsmen: David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green
All-rounders: Mitch Marsh, Cameron Green
Wicketkeeper: Alex Carey
Pace bowlers: Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Lance Morris
Spinner: Nathan Lyon
Perth will bear witness to the first Test, scheduled for December 14-18 at the iconic Perth Stadium. Next, the action shifts to the hallowed turf of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for the second Test, slated for December 26-30. Lastly, the series culminates at the majestic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) from January 3-7 for the third Test.
