"I Was Below My Standards..." - Steve Smith's Huge Remark Ahead Of Pakistan Tests

Australia batter Steve Smith opened up about his preparations for the upcoming Test series against Pakistan. He admitted after the ICC World Cup 2023, a break of a week helped him and now he feels like he is in a good space.

Australia will be taking on Pakistan in the three-match Test series at home. It’s fair to say that Steve Smith will be playing a crucial role for his team and will hold the key for his team in the series. The batter has been the backbone of his team for the last one decade and would be eager to perform in the upcoming series.

Steve Smith is absolutely beast in home conditions and it’s fair to say if he sets the stage on fire, there would be no stopping him. The veteran of 103 Tests hasn’t had a great run in the Tests this year by his standard but he would be a real threat for the opposition in the upcoming series.

Steve Smith, who averages 43 from 20 innings this year, said that he focuses on trusting what he has done for a long period of time. He added that the entire Australian team is in good shape and they are keen to take the field. He said (as quoted by Cricbuzz):

“I don’t have to reinvent the wheel. I’ve performed at a high standard for a long period of time. (But) you’re right – I was probably below my standards of what I want. For me, it’s about not overthinking it, not overplaying too much, not changing too much. Just going out and trusting what I do and doing it for longer periods of time, hopefully to get the big runs and hopefully help our team have success.

“It’s been a busy, busy year. I certainly needed a little break after the World Cup. It was good to have a week at home, and relax and refresh the mind and body as much as possible to get ready for this series. But now I feel like I’m in a good place. I think the boys feel like they’re in a good place and are keen to get out and play some red-ball cricket again.”

It can be challenging with quite a busy schedule – Steve Smith

Steve Smith also opened up about the busy schedule of the Australian team, stating that playing continuously can be challenging and highlighting the importance of mental breaks. He also spoke about how he spent his time at home. He added:

“It can be challenging with quite a busy schedule, but any sort of moment you can get to have a few days or a week just to get away from the game and get your mental side back to a position where you can go out and perform internationally, it’s important.

“I’ve sort of got into the golf a bit and played a bit of golf back home. The boys are continually laughing about it at the moment, that I’m getting into golf.”

If Australia have to fancy their chances of winning against Pakistan, Steve Smith has to play a massive role. He’s currently the No.3 ranked Test batter and would be hoping to set the stage on fire in the next series.