Steve Smith marked his return to the Big Bash League with an unforgettable performance against the Perth Scorchers on Saturday.
Playing for the Sydney Sixers at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Smith smashed a scintillating 121 not out off just 64 balls, lighting up the venue with his aggressive stroke play.
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Despite a slow start, the veteran batter built momentum, eventually reaching his century off 58 balls. His knock included 10 fours and seven towering sixes, as he guided Sydney to a mammoth 220/3 in their 20 overs.
This performance not only helped his team secure a 14-run victory but also reignited conversations about his potential return to the IPL.
Should Steve Smith be in IPL 2025?
Smith’s innings against the Scorchers was a reminder of his adaptability in T20 cricket. Fans were quick to question why a player of his calibre was overlooked during the IPL 2025 auction.
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While Smith has been a part of IPL franchises in the past, his absence this year has raised eyebrows.
His experience and ability to anchor an innings while accelerating when needed are qualities that several IPL teams could utilize.
What were the fans' reactions to Steve Smith’s knock?
Fans flooded social media with reactions, hailing Smith’s brilliance and expressing their disbelief at his omission from IPL 2025.
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Steven Smith's T20 game has gone so high in past 2 years and he deserved an IPL contract this year...... He did well in last 2 seasons of BBL as well as in MLC....
— Rajiv (@Rajiv1841) January 11, 2025
Smith today scored 121 runs in 20 overs where avg team score has been 150-160....pic.twitter.com/YjnRtKONRz
Steve Smith announcing his comeback to T20 cricket in style with 121* (64) while opening the innings for Sydney Sixers in BBL.
— Sameer Allana (@HitmanCricket) January 11, 2025
Which IPL team should bring him in as a replacement if there's a requirement?pic.twitter.com/B0lXK6atpl
Steve Smith's T20 game has improved considerably in recent years, it's a shame no IPL franchise wants to take a gamble on him
— Jorge De Guzman (@AttantiManoj) January 11, 2025
Some IPL Teams can still have Steve Smith as an injury replacement 👀pic.twitter.com/KcXhtmpstO
— Abhishek (@vicharabhio) January 11, 2025
I still can't believe that Ricky Ponting didn't go for Steve Smith in the IPL Auction.
— Lubana Warriors (@LubanaS49) January 11, 2025
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