Steven Smith accepted his likely absence from Australia’s T20 World Cup plans this week, but in Sydney, under SCG lights and Big Bash noise, his Olympic ambition continued to burn bright.
Smith’s recent BBL form forced the conversation. A 42-ball century followed by a composed fifty dragged Sydney Sixers into the Qualifier and reminded everyone that class rarely fades.
Australia’s selectors noticed, but they did not blink. They named their provisional World Cup squad without Smith and signalled that only injury would change the plan.
Chair of selectors George Bailey acknowledged the dilemma without opening the door fully. “It’s a great problem to have, isn’t it? He’s playing incredibly well, as he has done in the BBL for the last couple of years, in a position that we’ve got really good coverage in.” That line spoke of admiration, not opportunity.
Bailey kept Smith technically alive without promising oxygen. “If there were moving parts and something was required around there, no doubt his name would be in the mix.” Translation: stay ready, but do not wait by the phone.
Smith understands the landscape better than anyone. “I always want to play for Australia in big tournaments, but I think that ship’s sailed,” he said after the Heat game. It sounded honest, not bitter.
He explained the logic clearly and without complaint. “They’ve got two opening batters that are doing pretty well. I’m relaxed doing what I can here and having some fun.” Acceptance, not surrender.
The bigger picture sits four years down the road. “My main goal is to get in the team when the Olympics is rolling around. I’d be keen to do that. That’d be pretty cool.” At 39, Smith plans to arrive older, stronger and sharper.
This version of Smith looks different. He has bulked up, hits further and plays with freedom that once felt reserved for others.
“I’ve played some different roles,” he said. “When I was playing, I had to stick it together in the middle. Since opening the batting, it gives me an opportunity to be free from ball one.” Freedom suits him.
Bailey refused to box Smith into one role. “I’d hate to put a line through saying that Steve couldn’t bat anywhere else. When he goes back to the Big Bash, he is a level above.” That praise carries weight, even without selection.
Smith’s ODI retirement already pointed towards this path. Franchise cricket, rhythm and longevity now shape his calendar, not legacy protection.
“I stopped playing one-day cricket to play a few more franchise things,” he said. “To play consistent games and get the rhythm of the game is pretty important.” The logic feels sound.
Smith will bat at least twice more for the Sixers this week. Whether or not silverware follows, his direction feels set.
