Steve Smith stated that he is “slightly concerned” about the survival of Test cricket in light of the global expansion of franchise-based leagues and urged cricket boards to prioritize the format.
The Australian batsman stated in the lead-up to the World Test Championship final, the ICC’s biennial showcase for red-ball cricket, that Test cricket is currently in a “good place” but that he hoped the format would continue to thrive in the future.
Smith replied, “I am slightly concerned.” However, hopefully Test cricket will continue to thrive. I believe it’s in an excellent spot right now. Some of the contests we’ve seen recently have been truly incredible. Therefore, as a traditionalist who adores Test cricket, I hope that it remains in the forefront of all the boards’ minds and continues to thrive for some time to come.”
Smith also discussed the significance of the WTC final to himself and his team, as well as the format’s “relevance.”
“Oh, I mean, it’s extremely vital. I believe it’s great that the World Test Championship now features a final between the two best teams. I assume it adds a bit more significance to Test cricket. Thus, it is the goal towards which we have all strived for several years. And this week should be exciting, and the boys are certainly looking forward to it.”
How does a WTC final compare to the buildups for the ODI and T20 World Cups, in which Smith has participated?
“I’m not really certain. I have not given that aspect of it much thought. Clearly, the last couple of years of Test cricket have been exceptional, and to participate in the World Test Championship final is quite an honor. I don’t know how it will feel, however, until we sort of go out there and get started. However, the last few days have been an excellent buildup. We’ve had some productive training days in Beckenham, and today and tomorrow we’ll play at the Oval. Consequently, we look forward to this. However, it should be a fantastic week,” Smith said.
Australia has lost the last four Border-Gavaskar series to India, with the most recent one occurring in India, where spin-dominated play. Smith also acknowledged that Australia will have to consider India’s extremely potent seam bowling attack in the WTC final in the United Kingdom.
“I believe they have a decent assortment of quality seam bowlers. Shami and Siraj are arguably their two most skilled players, and I believe the Dukes ball suits them well. In addition, their spinners perform exceptionally well in all conditions. Therefore, I believe they have a strong attack, and we will need to perform well against them this week.”
The WTC final will begin at the Oval on June 7.
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