Steve Smith Sets Sights On IPL Return After Major League Cricket Victory

Steve Smith, a prominent batter of his generation, has struggled to meet expectations in T20 cricket. His T20 career hit a low point when he was excluded from Australia's squad for the T20 World Cup 2024.

The 35-year-old cricketer also faced challenges securing a spot in the IPL. Despite the league expanding to ten teams, Smith did not find a place last season. His most recent IPL appearance was in 2021.

Smith's last stint in the IPL was with Delhi Capitals in 2021. He was bought for Rs 2.20 crore, significantly less than the Rs 12.50 crore he earned at Rajasthan Royals. During that season, he played eight matches, scoring 152 runs at an average of 25.33 and a strike rate of 112.59.

In his overall IPL career, Smith has played 103 matches, amassing 2485 runs at an average of 34.51 and a strike rate of 128.09. He also boasts an IPL century to his name.

Smith's international T20 performance has also seen a decline. After playing 11 T20I matches for Australia in 2022, he featured in only two T20Is each in 2023 and so far in 2024. In total, he has played 67 T20I matches for Australia, averaging 24.86 with a strike rate of 125.45.

MLC Success: A Ray of Hope

The Major League Cricket (MLC) campaign in 2024 offered Smith a chance to rejuvenate his T20 and IPL career. As captain of Washington Freedom, he led his team to victory, showcasing his leadership and batting prowess.

In the MLC final against San Francisco Unicorns, Smith opened the innings and top-scored with an impressive 88 off 52 balls, including seven fours and six sixes. His teammates included notable players like Travis Head (9), Glenn Maxwell (40), and Rachin Ravindra (11).

Under Smith's leadership, Washington Freedom lost only once during the MLC season. He ended as the second-highest run-scorer with 336 runs in nine matches at an average of 56 and a strike rate of 148.67.

Looking Ahead to IPL Mega Auction

With the IPL mega auction set for this year, Steve Smith aims for a strong return to the world's premier T20 league. His recent performances could boost his chances of securing a spot.

The upcoming auction will be crucial for Smith as he seeks to re-establish himself in the competitive arena of IPL cricket.