Australian superstar and stylish willow-wilder, Steve Smith confirmed his participation in the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Smith shared a video message on his Twitter account on March 27 (Monday) and said that he will be joining an 'exceptional' team in the cash-rich tournament. The 33-year-old Aussie didn't reveal the full information regarding his participation but since the announcement, Kolkata Knight Riders' fans have been speculating that Smith will be part of the two-time champions' squad as the franchise is hunting for a captain in Shreyas Iyer's absence.
"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 on Twitter.
While fans have been speculating about Smith joining the Kolkata-based franchise, there is a greater possibility of the Aussie superstar joining the commentary panel for the cash-rich tournament.
Talking about Smith's IPL career, the right-handed batter has represented four franchises in the cash-rich league - Pune Warriors, Rising Pune Supergiants, Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals. Smith has played 103 matches in IPL, scoring 2,485 runs in the process at a strike rate of 128.09. He has also smashed 11 half-centuries and one ton in the greatest T20 franchise league in the world.
Smith went unsold during the IPL Mega Auction in 2022 and didn't register his name for the mini-auction ahead of the 16th edition of the cash-rich league. The stylish Aussie batter was in scintillating form during Big Bash League (BBL 12) while playing for Sydney Sixers. He smashed two centuries and 25 sixes in five matches, aggregating 346 runs at a stunning strike rate of 174.75.
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