Steve Smith's Stellar BBL Form Ignites T20 World Cup Selection Debate
Steve Smith has expressed his desire to participate in the upcoming T20 World Cup, with Sydney Sixers coach Greg Shipperd becoming the latest prominent figure to advocate for the veteran batsman's inclusion in Australia's squad. This pressure mounts on national selectors as Smith demonstrates remarkable form in domestic cricket.
Post-Ashes Brilliance Continues in BBL Campaign
Fresh from playing a pivotal role in Australia's 4-1 Ashes series victory, Smith carried his exceptional batting prowess into the Big Bash League. His series of stunning innings were instrumental in propelling the Sydney Sixers to Sunday's BBL final, showcasing his enduring class and match-winning capabilities.
Although the Sixers suffered a six-wicket defeat to the Perth Scorchers in the decider at Optus Stadium, witnessed by 55,018 fans, Smith's performance remained a highlight. The 36-year-old emerged as his side's most dangerous batter during the final, racing to 24 runs off just 12 deliveries before being dismissed LBW on review by Aaron Hardie in the sixth over.
Smith hit the Sixers' sole six of their innings, with the visitors ultimately bowled out for 132 after failing to recover from the early loss of their star opener. His contribution stood out in an otherwise challenging match for the Sydney-based team.
Compelling Statistics Strengthen Selection Case
Across six innings this BBL season, Smith compiled an impressive average of 59.8 while maintaining a formidable strike rate of 168. His consistent performances included scores of 19 not out, a century of 100, 54, 37, 65, and 24, demonstrating both explosive power and reliable run accumulation.
It has been nearly two years since Smith last represented Australia in T20 internationals, having played 67 matches in the format. Despite this absence, he was notably omitted from Australia's provisional 15-man World Cup squad, a decision that is now facing increasing scrutiny.
Growing Momentum for World Cup Inclusion
Calls for Smith's selection have grown louder following his spectacular run of form, with Shipperd providing particularly strong endorsement. The Sixers coach confirmed Smith's ambitions, stating "I'm sure he would like the opportunity" when discussing the batsman's World Cup aspirations.
Smith has previously publicly declared his desire to be selected for the T20 side when the format makes its Olympic debut in 2028. Privately, it is understood he is equally keen to secure a late call-up for the imminent T20 World Cup, which commences on February 7 across India and Sri Lanka.
"He's talked about the Olympics. That indicates to me that he'd still love to play the game and in World Cups, big tournaments," Shipperd remarked, highlighting Smith's continued passion for international cricket.
Coach's Unwavering Endorsement of Batting Mastery
Shipperd offered unequivocal praise for Smith's abilities, declaring "He is the best batter in the competition at the moment." The experienced coach conducted a detailed analysis to support his argument, suggesting a compelling case exists for Smith's inclusion.
"If you do a deep dive into the stats of some of the players in there at the moment, there's a great case for Smith to be parachuted in," Shipperd explained. He elaborated on Smith's technical excellence, describing him as "a great predictor, a great technician" who possesses complete batting mastery.
The coach emphasized Smith's versatility as a 360-degree player with all scoring strokes, combined with invaluable experience and confidence. "So all the things you need to be one of the world's best batters," Shipperd concluded, presenting a formidable argument for selectors to reconsider their provisional squad decisions as the World Cup approaches.
