Australian cricket veteran Steve Smith is set to make his debut in the Pakistan Super League this season, following his controversial omission from Australia's final Twenty20 World Cup squad. The move comes as Smith continues to push for an international recall in the shortest format of the game.
From BBL Success to PSL Opportunity
Fresh from an outstanding performance with the Sydney Sixers in this summer's Big Bash League, Smith will join the Sialkot Stallionz for the upcoming PSL tournament that begins next month. The Stallionz are coached by former Australian Test captain Tim Paine, adding an intriguing Australian connection to Smith's new venture.
This maiden PSL appearance represents a significant opportunity for the 36-year-old to maintain his competitive edge and showcase his skills on an international stage. Smith played the last of his 67 T20 internationals in February 2024 but has expressed a strong desire to represent Australia when T20 cricket makes its Olympic debut at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.
World Cup Snub and Future Prospects
Despite carrying excellent form from Australia's 4-1 Ashes triumph into the BBL season, where he averaged an impressive 59.8 from six innings as the Sixers finished runners-up to Perth Scorchers, Smith was overlooked for Australia's 15-player squad for the T20 World Cup being played this month in India and Sri Lanka.
The Australian selectors have opted for Travis Head and captain Mitch Marsh as their preferred opening combination, leaving Smith to pursue other opportunities to maintain his match fitness and form.
New South Wales teammate Kurtis Patterson commented on the selection decision, stating: "I do understand it. He's done so well opening the batting for the Sixers, but the things that you read all make sense. If one of Trav or Mitch goes down, I'm sure he's the next man that will be on that first flight over there."
Patterson added: "Hopefully Trav and Mitch win us a World Cup, but he's a nice guy to have sitting and waiting and being fresh in Sydney and ready to go when called."
Smith's Changing Cricket Calendar
Typically an opening batter in T20 cricket, Smith has joined as the Stallionz' inaugural signing for their first PSL season. Other overseas talent is expected to join through the league's auction scheduled for February 11.
As recently as last month, Smith had anticipated that the Major League Cricket season in winter would be his next cricket commitment following the BBL. He remains set to be available for that tournament, which will fall between the PSL and Australia's two-Test home series against Bangladesh slated for August.
This packed schedule demonstrates Smith's commitment to maintaining his professional cricket career across multiple formats and competitions, despite his current absence from Australia's T20 international setup.
