Australian batsman Steve Smith has admitted he is not in line for a surprise return to the T20I lineup ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup. Smith revealed his focus is on the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, and suggested continued strong performances could keep the possibility of an international comeback alive.
The 36-year-old has been in excellent form for the Sydney Sixers in the ongoing Big Bash League but has been left out of Australia’s provisional squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. He was also not selected for the three-match T20 series against Pakistan, Australia’s last series before the World Cup.
My main goal is to make the team for the Olympics – Steve Smith
Steve Smith said his main goal is to represent Australia at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Smith also accepted that his chances of returning for the T20 World Cup are unlikely. The batsman added that he is content with focusing on his current cricket, enjoying his game and staying ready.
“My main goal, as I’ve said before, is to make the team when the Olympics come around. I’d love to do that. That would be pretty cool. Keep doing what I’m doing, and you never know.”
“I always want to play for Australia in big tournaments. But I think the ship (T20 World Cup) has sailed. I think they have two opening batters who are doing quite well. I’m relaxing here doing what I can and having fun,” he added.
Steve Smith misses out as Australia sets top-order plans
The Australian selectors have added extra batting options for the three-match T20 series in Pakistan ahead of the T20 World Cup. However, Steve Smith did not receive a late call-up as the provisional World Cup squad had already been chosen.
Australia are coming off a strong T20 run of form, with Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head the first-choice openers. This offers limited opportunities for other hitters at the top of the order.
Smith also missed the previous T20 World Cup in the Caribbean even as he opened his last four T20Is. He spent most of his international career at number 3 or number 4.
In his last five Big Bash League innings, he has scored two centuries and two half-centuries, with all four of his BBL hundreds coming as openers. Smith has scored 1,094 runs in 67 T20Is for Australia at an average of 24.86 and a strike rate of 125.46, with a highest score of 90.
Steve Smith’s franchise focus keeps the Olympic dream alive
Steve Smith retired from ODI cricket after last year’s Champions Trophy to focus more on franchise cricket. This decision has enabled him to play in competitions such as Major League Cricket and The Hundred.
During the last off-season, Smith spent time in New York, where he now lives when not playing cricket. He focused heavily on strength training and has visibly added muscle mass as part of his preparation.
With T20 cricket set to feature at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, Smith knows he must continue playing franchise T20 cricket to stay in contention for Australia.
Smith will bat at least twice more for the Sydney Sixers this week. If they beat the Perth Scorchers on Tuesday, the Sixers will host the final at the Sydney Cricket Ground. If they lose, they will play the Challenger on Thursday for another chance to reach the final.
Also read: Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh blamed for Steve Smith’s T20 World Cup 2026 snub by Australian selector
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