Australia batsman Steve Smith has admitted that he is not in contention for a surprise comeback in the T20I setup ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup. Smith revealed his focus is on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, saying continued strong performances could keep his chances of an international comeback alive.
The 36-year-old has been in red-hot form for the Sydney Sixers in the ongoing Big Bash League, but has been left out of Australia’s preliminary squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. He was also not selected for the three-match T20 series against Pakistan, which would be Australia’s last series before the World Cup.
My main goal is to make the team for the Olympics – Steve Smith
Steve Smith said his main goal is to represent Australia at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Smith also admitted that his chances of returning in the T20 World Cup are slim. The batsman said he is content to focus on his current cricket, enjoy his game and stay prepared.
“My main goal, like I’ve said before, is to get on the team when the Olympics get underway. I’m looking forward to doing that. It would be great. Keep doing what I’m doing, and you’ll never know.”
“I’ve always wanted to play for Australia in big tournaments. But I think that ship has sailed (T20 World Cup). I think they have two opening batsmen who are performing really well. I’m just looking forward to doing what I can here and having some fun,” he said.
Steve Smith misses out on Australia’s top-order plans
Australia’s selectors have added additional batting options for the three-match T20 series in Pakistan ahead of the T20 World Cup. However, Steve Smith did not receive a late call-up, as the provisional World Cup squad had already been selected.
Australia are coming in strong T20 form, with Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head as the first-choice openers. This has limited opportunities for other top-order batsmen.
Smith also missed the last T20 World Cup in the Caribbean, although he had opened in his last four T20 matches. Most of his international career has been spent batting at No. 3 or No. 4.
In his last five Big Bash League innings, he has scored two centuries and two half-centuries, with all four of his BBL centuries coming as an opening batsman. Smith has scored 1,094 runs in 67 T20Is for Australia at an average of 24.86 and a strike rate of 125.46, with his highest score being 90.
Steve Smith’s franchise focus keeps Olympic dream alive
Steve Smith retired from ODI cricket after the Champions Trophy last year to focus more on franchise cricket. This decision has allowed him to play in leagues like Major League Cricket and The Hundred.
During the last off-season, Smith spent time in New York, where he now lives when not playing cricket. He focused heavily on strength training and has clearly added muscle as part of his preparation.
With T20 cricket being included in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Smith knows he will have to continue playing franchise T20 cricket for Australia to remain in contention.
Smith is set to bat at least twice more for the Sydney Sixers this week. If they beat Perth Scorchers on Tuesday, the Sixers will host the final at the Sydney Cricket Ground. If they lose, they will play the Challengers on Thursday for another chance to reach the final.
Also read: Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh blamed for ignoring Steve Smith in T20 World Cup 2026 by Australia selectors
