Steve Smith Targets 2028 Olympics as T20 World Cup Hopes Fade
Australian batting stalwart Steve Smith has confirmed that his "main goal" is to represent Australia at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, effectively conceding that his chances of a surprise inclusion in the upcoming T20 World Cup squad are slim. The 36-year-old, who has been in exceptional form for Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League, was omitted from both Australia's preliminary World Cup squad and the T20I squad for the Pakistan series. While disappointed, Smith maintains a pragmatic outlook, focusing instead on the longer-term ambition of Olympic participation when cricket returns to the Games after 128 years.
"I always want to play for Australia in big tournaments. But I think that ship's (T20 World Cup) 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 stated. Regarding his Olympic aspirations, he added: "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."
Chief selector George Bailey left the door slightly ajar for Smith, acknowledging his superb BBL form while explaining the current selection logic. "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 said. He also suggested that if Smith were to return to the T20I setup, it would likely be at the top of the order, where he has had recent international opportunities.
Smith's situation highlights the challenging transition facing veteran players in an era of specialized formats and intense competition. Despite being one of Australia's greatest modern batsmen and maintaining strong domestic form, the crowded landscape of T20 specialists has made it difficult for him to break back into the shortest format at international level. His pivot towards the 2028 Olympics represents a strategic recalibration—setting a long-term target that aligns with his skills and the unique context of Olympic cricket. As Australia builds towards the T20 World Cup with younger options, Smith's focus on the Olympics provides both a personal motivation and a potential pathway for extending his illustrious international career in a historic setting.
"I always want to play for Australia in big tournaments. But I think that ship's (T20 World Cup) 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 stated. Regarding his Olympic aspirations, he added: "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."
Chief selector George Bailey left the door slightly ajar for Smith, acknowledging his superb BBL form while explaining the current selection logic. "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 said. He also suggested that if Smith were to return to the T20I setup, it would likely be at the top of the order, where he has had recent international opportunities.
Smith's situation highlights the challenging transition facing veteran players in an era of specialized formats and intense competition. Despite being one of Australia's greatest modern batsmen and maintaining strong domestic form, the crowded landscape of T20 specialists has made it difficult for him to break back into the shortest format at international level. His pivot towards the 2028 Olympics represents a strategic recalibration—setting a long-term target that aligns with his skills and the unique context of Olympic cricket. As Australia builds towards the T20 World Cup with younger options, Smith's focus on the Olympics provides both a personal motivation and a potential pathway for extending his illustrious international career in a historic setting.
Also Read | How Harbhajan's off-spin made Ricky Ponting feel alone and helpless
The famous 2001 Test win against Australia was all about the Dravid-Laxman partnership, as well as how Harbhajan Singh's final trap sent the famous Australian line-up on a 16-match losing streak Was. details the mood in the Australian camp and how their batting deteriorated under constant pressure from Harbhajan. The atmosphere was there, but from the moment I stepped into this country for the first time, it became clear to me that Indians respect him. Knew. Didn't worry Ng. Deep deep. It might have changed, but clearly it did not.
Which became the third team to win the Test after four matches. Had batted against.
Don't believe that he had Dravid LBW in the last over before lunch. He was completely terrified at the conclusion of this Test - a quip for which he somehow escaped scrutiny - I don't think he was particularly thinking about it (Ponting bowling), some LBW decisions. It's also the last day about the decision, but they should have included it because it was equally controversial,'' he wrote.
Gave consolation.
"But as soon as Harbhajan started swinging the ball in the Test, I was there immediately," Miley said.
Decided to go down while winging it. For helping me to solve my problems against f spinner. Will take turning wickets to get the score.
I made sure that when I was captain I was always there for the players who were struggling.
Which became the third team to win the Test after four matches. Had batted against.
Don't believe that he had Dravid LBW in the last over before lunch. He was completely terrified at the conclusion of this Test - a quip for which he somehow escaped scrutiny - I don't think he was particularly thinking about it (Ponting bowling), some LBW decisions. It's also the last day about the decision, but they should have included it because it was equally controversial,'' he wrote.
Gave consolation.
"But as soon as Harbhajan started swinging the ball in the Test, I was there immediately," Miley said.
Decided to go down while winging it. For helping me to solve my problems against f spinner. Will take turning wickets to get the score.
I made sure that when I was captain I was always there for the players who were struggling.
Also Read | Why does Anil Kumble think Sanju Samson's signing will contribute to CSK's fan following?
Former India bowler Anil Kumble opened up about Sanju Samson's move from Rajasthan Royals to Chennai Super Kings ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League season starting on March 28. Champion CSK will take on Sanju's former franchise RR in their opening match on March 30 in Guwahati.
Continue the session. .
Continue the session. .
Also Read | Why can the team's total score be 300 runs in the 2026 IPL?
The descriptions of batsmen who saw their teams slip when the 300-run mark in T20 was within arm's reach are akin to those of mountaineers who were caught back on base within touching distance of E. Had to move away. were looted; Rerana. Can. The hawks are waiting.
Also Read | Kamran Akmal criticized the Pakistan team after the series loss to Bangladesh: 'Do you want to steal the ICC trophy and bring it back?'
After a disappointing performance in the ICC T20 World Cup, Pakistan suffered an ODI series defeat to Bangladesh. Tore both of them and said that at this pace, how will the party progress?
And you have to remain fit in all three departments.
And you have to remain fit in all three departments.
Also Read | Why can the team's total score be 300 runs in IPL 2026?
The descriptions of batsmen who saw their teams slip when the 300-run mark in T20 was within arm's reach are akin to those of mountaineers who were caught back on base within touching distance of E. Had to move away. were looted; Rerana. Can. The hawks are waiting.
