Steve Smith Sets Sights on 2028 Los Angeles Olympics
Australian batting star Steve Smith has openly discussed his ambition to represent Australia at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The 36-year-old cricketer made this revelation while addressing his absence from the national squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Olympic Dream Takes Priority
Smith stated clearly that his primary focus remains on making the Australian team for the 2028 Olympics. "My main goal, as I've said before, is to get in the team when the Olympics is rolling around. I'd be keen to do that. That'd be pretty cool. Keep doing what I'm doing, and you never know," Smith explained. He expressed enthusiasm about the possibility of competing on the Olympic stage.
T20 World Cup Selection Reality
The right-handed batsman acknowledged that he is not in contention for the T20 World Cup squad. Smith has not been included in Australia's preliminary squad for the biennial tournament. He also missed selection for the three-match T20 series against Pakistan starting January 29.
"I always want to play for Australia in big tournaments. But I think that ship's sailed. I reckon they've got two opening batters that are doing pretty well. I'm relaxed doing what I can here and having some fun," Smith said about the T20 World Cup situation.
Current Form and Future Possibilities
Despite the T20 World Cup snub, Smith has been displaying excellent batting form in the ongoing Big Bash League for Sydney Sixers. His performances have caught the attention of selectors.
Chief selector George Bailey admitted that Smith could still be considered if replacements become necessary for the T20 World Cup. "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. But if there were moving parts and something was required around there, no doubt his name would be in the mix," Bailey stated.
Potential Role in Future T20 Teams
Bailey suggested that if Smith returns to the Australian T20 international fold in the future, he might bat at the top of the order. The chief selector praised Smith's adaptability and proven track record.
"I'd hate to put a line through saying that Steve couldn't bat anywhere else, because I think he's proven us wrong, or he's proved his ability to be able to do that on a number of occasions. I think when he's had international opportunities of late, it has been at the top. Certainly, his most recent ones have been," Bailey explained.
He further emphasized Smith's superior performance level in domestic cricket. "He's played a lot of international T20 cricket. Clearly, when he goes back to the Big Bash, he is a level above," Bailey added, highlighting the cricketer's consistent excellence.
Smith's immediate focus remains on maintaining his current form while keeping his Olympic aspirations alive. The veteran batsman appears determined to continue performing at his best, hoping for future opportunities to represent Australia on the global stage.
