Australian cricketing icon Steve Smith is all set to make a dramatic return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2023. However, the former Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain will not be seen wielding the willow this time around; instead, he will be offering his expert insights from the commentary box.
Smith, who recently led Australia to a remarkable series victory over India in the absence of regular skipper Pat Cummins, took to social media on Monday to confirm his participation in IPL 2023. In a short video that quickly went viral, Smith revealed that he will be joining the expert panel for the marquee tournament.
Eager to share his knowledge of the game with viewers, Smith said in an interview with Star Sports, “I think I read the game pretty well, so hopefully there will be some good insights for all the people watching IPL out there. I’m certainly excited about joining the Star Sports Team and I’m looking forward to this new experience.”
Smith made his IPL debut in 2012 with the now-defunct Pune Warriors, playing against Rohit Sharma’s Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium. The 33-year-old has since represented various teams, including Kochi Tuskers Kerala, Rajasthan Royals, Rising Pune Supergiant, and Delhi Capitals. With 2,485 runs in 103 IPL matches, Smith’s last appearance in the league was in 2021. He went unsold at the IPL 2022 auction after being released by Delhi Capitals.
Fans can look forward to hearing Smith’s expert analysis during the IPL 2023 curtain-raiser on Friday, featuring defending champions Gujarat Titans taking on four-time winners Chennai Super Kings, led by legendary captain MS Dhoni. The highly-anticipated clash will take place at the renowned Narendra Modi Stadium, setting the stage for an electrifying start to the season.