On November 16, at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Steve Smith faced his lowest ODI World Cup knockout score. Displaying patience, he crafted a knock of 30 off 62 balls before an ill-advised shot against Gerald Coetzee led to his dismissal.
Although Smith’s exit didn’t alter the World Cup 2023 semi-final outcome, it did create tension in the dugout. In anticipation of the final, Smith, in conversation with broadcasters, identified Australia’s potential game-changer against in-form India.
He expressed confidence in Travis Head’s aggressive batting style, hoping for a strong start in the upcoming match.
“The way he is batting, he is playing very aggressively. If he gets away from you and bats significant time, he is going to post a big score. So fingers crossed, he can get us to another good start in a couple of day’s time,” Smith said.
Head, sidelined in the league stage against India due to injury, received praise from Smith for contributing crucial wickets against South Africa. Smith acknowledged the suitability of the pitch for Head’s bowling, emphasizing the significance of his dismissals, particularly against dangerous players like Klaasen and Jansen.
With Australia set to play their eighth World Cup final and having triumphed over India in the World Test Championship 2021-23 final, Smith is geared up for the challenge in the vibrant atmosphere of Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.
