Australian betting legend Steve Smith no plans to hang up the boots anytime soon. The veteran cricketer has decided to represent Australia at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where cricket will return to the T20 format.
Smith, who recently made headlines with a blistering century for him Sydney Sixers IN Big Bash League (BBL), expressed his desire to play in the global event. “I would love to play in the Olympics; I think that would be great,” Smith told FOX Sports.
An unforgettable return to T20 cricket
Smith's return to T20 cricket has been nothing short of spectacular. Playing for the Sydney Sixers, he smashed 121 off just 64 balls against the Perth Scorchers at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). His haul, which included 10 fours and seven sixes, came at a strike rate of 189.06. It was his third BBL century, putting him level with Ben McDermott for the most centuries in the history of the tournament.
Despite his recent struggles in T20Is, Smith's performances in the domestic and franchise leagues have been top notch. Since 2023, he has scored 950 runs in 21 T20 innings at an impressive average of 59.37, including three centuries and six fifties.
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Smith's stellar run in T20 leagues
Smith's stint at Major League Cricket (MLC) in the USA was another highlight of his recent T20 tour. He led the Washington Freedom to a title-winning run in the 2024 MLC, scoring 336 runs in nine matches at an average of 56.00 and a strike rate of 148.67.
His ability to adapt and excel in different conditions has made him a sought-after player in T20 leagues around the world. In the BBL, Smith has continued to show his class, cementing his status as one of the most reliable batsmen in the format.
Plans Beyond Traditional Formats
Smith, known for his skills in Test cricket, is now focusing more on the shorter formats. “We will see how far I go in terms of long-form cricket. But I will play short-form cricket for a while, I think when I finish,” he said.
The 33-year-old is aware of the competition from younger players but remains motivated to continue performing at the highest level. “There are a lot of good young kids who are hitting the ball out of the park. There are other guys around the country giving it a shot,” he added.
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