“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 mentioned in a video message posted on his Twitter account.
But the thriller behind his return ended with the match’s broadcaster saying on Tuesday that Smith will make debut as a commentator on the upcoming Indian Premier League.
“Steve Smith has joined the expert panel for the marquee tournament. Smith will be making his broadcast debut with Star Sports, adding his invaluable insights and expertise to Star Sports’ already impressive roster of panelists,” the broadcaster mentioned in a press release.
The sixteenth version of the cash-rich Twenty20 extravaganza begins Friday in Ahmedabad, with 10 groups and a bunch of worldwide stars in attendance for the eight-week match.
Smith’s submit sparked hypothesis he would possibly return to the match as a participant.
The video drew appreciable mirth on social media for Smith’s robot-like efficiency within the 15-second clip, throughout which he did not blink.
“DON’T blink if you’re being held at gunpoint,” one Twitter consumer quipped.
Another fan suggested Smith, who not too long ago led Australia in two Tests and three one-day internationals in India, to make use of his bat and never the microphone on his Indian return.
Smith final performed for the Delhi Capitals within the profitable IPL in 2021 earlier than he went unsold within the public sale for the next season.
The star batsman stored himself out of this season’s mini-auction in December however will be picked up as an harm substitute by any group.
(With AFP Inputs)
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com