Steve Smith has sent the cricket world into a frenzy after announcing he will be returning to the IPL.
The Australian was not a part of the auction which was held in December 2022, but has taken to Twitter to announce his return to the biggest T20 league in the world.
“Namaste India. I have got some exciting news for you. I am joining IPL 2023. I am joining an exceptional and passionate team in India,” Smith said in a video posted to Twitter.
— Steve Smith (@stevesmith49) March 27, 2023
Smith is no stranger to the IPL having played for several franchises in the past. The former Australian captain has represented the Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals and Bangalore.
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Steve Smith's IPL history and stats
The current Australian vice-captain has had success with bat in hand, scoring 2485 runs in 103 matches in the IPL. Smith was also a part of the now-collapsed Rising Pune Supergiants in 2017 under now Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni. Smith was vital in the 2017 season for the Supergiants averaging 34, which included a century and 11 fifties.
Fans of the Kolkata Knight Riders are hoping that Smith has opted to bring his talents to their franchise. The Knight Riders are in desperate need for a captain after it was announced that current captain Shreyas Iyer would miss the majority of the season after a back complaint.
Can’t wait @SussexCCC https://t.co/8rZzgEmbhu
— Steve Smith (@stevesmith49) January 19, 2023
However, Smith has his sights firmly focused on Australia’s World Test Championship final in England later this year. In preparation for the clash against India, Smith has opted to play three first-class matches for Sussex in the County Championship season ahead of the final.
Will Steve Smith play in the 2023 IPL?
Although Smith’s cryptic message has been liked close to 40 thousand times on Twitter, the role Smith will play in this season's tournament might be off-field.
Smith has been rumoured to be joining the commentary ranks as part of the coverage. If the commentary rumours are true, Smith will join the likes of Sunil Gavaskar and fellow countrymen Matthew Hayden and Tom Moody behind the mic.
If he was to play it would be mark the first time that the Fab 4 - Kane Williamson, Virat Kohli, Joe Root and Smith - have all played in the same IPL edition.
