“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 stated in a video message posted on his Twitter account.
But the thriller at the back of his go back ended with the event’s broadcaster pronouncing on Tuesday that Smith will make his 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 stated in a remark.
The sixteenth version of the cash-rich Twenty20 extravaganza starts Friday in Ahmedabad, with 10 groups and a bunch of world stars in attendance for the eight-week event.
Smith’s publish sparked hypothesis he may go back to the event as a participant.
The video drew really extensive mirth on social media for Smith’s robot-like efficiency within the 15-second clip, all over which he did not blink.
“DON’T blink if you’re being held at gunpoint,” quipped one Twitter person.
Another fan recommended Smith, who lately led Australia in two Tests and 3 one-day internationals in India, to make use of his bat and now not the microphone on his Indian go back.
Smith closing 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 big name batsman stored himself out of this season’s mini-auction in December however can also be picked up as an damage substitute by means of any crew.
(With AFP Inputs)