Steve Smith Criticized for On-Field Behavior During Sheffield Shield Loss

Steve Smith’s behavior during New South Wales’ recent Sheffield Shield defeat to Victoria has sparked criticism from AFL legend Kane Cornes, who questioned Smith’s attitude and sportsmanship. Smith, playing his first Shield match in nearly five years, managed just three runs over two innings at the MCG, capped by a controversial LBW dismissal in his second innings.

The 35-year-old Australian vice-captain was dismissed for a four-ball duck after shouldering arms to an in-swinger from Victoria’s Scott Boland, who has been in strong form. The ball skidded into Smith’s front pad, a misjudgment that ended his brief innings.

Smith visibly displayed his frustration as he walked back to the pavilion, shaking his head in disapproval. His reaction echoed previous incidents where Smith’s refusal to accept dismissals has drawn public criticism.

Cornes did not hold back in his assessment on SEN Breakfast, calling Smith “the most self-absorbed Australian athlete” and accusing him of setting a “shocking example” as a leader. “It’s never his fault,” Cornes remarked. “He leaves a straight ball that’s going to smash into the stumps. I reckon you should use your bat if it’s close to the stumps. He leaves one, and then it’s the umpire’s fault. It’s never, ever his fault.”

Cornes further emphasized that Smith’s behavior could be seen as setting a poor example, especially as a former captain of the national team. “What a shocking example,” Cornes added. “Can’t have it. I’m sorry.”

Boland, meanwhile, showed little sympathy toward his Australian teammate. “They can talk about it all they want,” Boland said post-match. “I thought it was out. It only has to hit the stumps when you don’t use your bat like that.”

Smith’s post-dismissal conduct is not a first. Last summer, he was criticized for his “petulant” behavior following dismissals. During the Sydney Test against Pakistan, Smith was dismissed on the first ball after chipping a catch to a heavily manned cover position, an obvious trap. After the catch, Smith stood motionless, hands on hips, staring at the pitch in visible disappointment.

The star batsman’s on-field actions are increasingly drawing attention, raising questions over his sportsmanship and his ability to maintain composure as a leader in the Australian squad.