The Hundred: Steve Smith To Captain Welsh Fire

The shortest format of the game in domestic cricket is all set to kickstart for the first time in the England and Wales from July 2020. Named as ‘The Hundred’ — the professional franchise cricket tournament will consist of 100-ball per side, organised by the England Cricket Board (ECB). With regards to that, former Australian captain Steve Smith has been appointed as Welsh Fire skipper, for the upcoming season.

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The 30-year old Smith, who has an imposing record in Test and ODI cricket, also has a wealth of experience in franchise cricket all over the world.

Smith is understood to lead the team that comprises of his fellow countryman Mitchell Starc, English white-ball superstars, Jonny Bairstow and Tom Banton.

The likes of Liam Plunkett and Ravi Rampaul will lead the pace attack while Afghanistan’s Qais Ahmed and South African Simon Harmer would complete the spin-bowling department.

Steve Smith ready to deliver goods in England:

Smith claimed that it’s an honour to captain the team in the inaugural season of The Hundred which has players from across the cricketing globe, having dominated the international and domestic circuit.

Also, he specifically spoke about Banton being one of the most exciting young cricketers along with Starc, who brings the x-factor to their squad.

“It’s an honour to be asked to captain Welsh Fire in the first year of The Hundred. Our squad looks super strong with a great group of players who’ve dominated the international and domestic scenes for the past few years. Tom Banton is one of the most exciting young players in the world right now and Mitchell Starc brings the X-factor with the ball, so we’re looking to put on an amazing show for the fans in Cardiff.” Smith said as quoted by gloscricket.co.uk

Gary Kirsten on the appointment of Steve Smith, as the Welsh Fire captain for The Hundred:

Gary Kirsten, who will serve as the coach of the Welsh Fire, was equally supportive of the Australian’s selection to captain the side.

Not only did Kirsten spoke about his vast experience in franchise cricket, but also he mentioned about how Smith leads from the front while getting the best out of himself and his men in pressure situations.

“Steve’s knowledge and experience of leading teams in pressurised situations will definitely help us in this first season of The Hundred. He’s got a track record of getting the best out of his players while performing to a very high standard himself, which will be key for us this summer.” Kirsten mentioned in this regard.

All in all, Welsh Fire will play the tournament’s first match against the Oval Invincibles on the 17th of July at the Kia Oval in London.

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