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Former Australian captain Michael Clarke has expressed strong criticism against the national selectors for their decision to include Steve Smith in the T20I squad for the upcoming South Africa tour. Clarke, who was a former teammate of Smith in all formats, questioned the rationale behind Smith’s selection after his limited participation in T20 cricket in recent times.
Smith’s presence in the T20I format had seemingly waned, as he played only one match during Australia’s World Cup campaign on home soil last year. This absence led many to believe that his time in the T20 arena was over. However, Smith’s unexpected inclusion in the 14-man T20I squad for the South Africa tour has raised eyebrows.
Clarke’s Critique on Selections
Speaking on Sky Sports Radio show ‘The Big Sports Breakfast’, Clarke did not hold back his criticism of the selectors’ decision. He labeled Smith’s selection as “embarrassing for the selectors” and expressed his confusion over the inconsistent decisions made by the panel over the past 15 months.
“I don’t understand (Smith’s selection) … that to me is embarrassing for the selectors,” Clarke said on Tuesday.
Clarke highlighted the fact that Smith couldn’t secure a spot in the playing XI during the 2021 T20 World Cup, questioning the logic behind his selection now. He emphasized the lack of accountability in the selection process and expressed his frustration at what he perceives as a lack of clarity in decision-making.
“They had him in the World Cup squad last year and he couldn’t make the XI. He doesn’t get a game, we go terribly in the World Cup. Selections over the past 15 months have been absolutely confusing. Smith not playing in that World Cup, I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. There’s just no accountability. It’s just swept under the carpet. I feel like I’m just watching a different game,” said Clarke.
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Puzzlement Over Smith’s Inclusion
The former captain expressed his bewilderment over the selection of Smith, particularly considering that the star batter isn’t actively participating in T20 cricket around the world. Smith’s absence from the Indian Premier League (IPL) and limited exposure to T20 leagues globally raised concerns about his form and readiness for international T20 cricket.
“I don’t know what they’re thinking with Smithy in the T20s. I don’t think he’s playing any other T20 cricket around the world. He’s not getting a gig in the IPL, didn’t get picked up there. He must still want to play though,” added Clarke.
Clarke also touched upon the significant disparity in bowling quality between domestic leagues like the Big Bash League (BBL) and international cricket. He pointed out that while Smith had impressive performances in the BBL, the step up to international level could be challenging due to the higher standard of bowlers.
Australia Looking Ahead
With David Warner rested for the T20I series against South Africa, Smith is likely to open the batting alongside players like Travis Head or Matt Short. The Aussies will play a three T20Is and five one-day internationals (ODIs) during the tour of South Africa, where Smith’s performance will be under scrutiny as the team strives to find the right balance in the 20-overs lineup.
