Steve Smith searching for T20 captain’s knock
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A clear mind will be crucial as Steve Smith attempts to deliver a captain’s knock after an underwhelming start to the World Twenty20.
The Australian skipper fired with the bat in a T20 series-decider in Cape Town then a World T20 warm-up match in Kolkata against West Indies.
But in the tournament hosted by India he has managed 20 runs from two digs, prompting Shane Warne to suggest Smith will be feeling pressure soon.
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“I don’t feel too bad. I had a pretty good net just then, working on a few things,” Smith said.
“Got my swing quite good so I’m pretty happy.
“When I play my best I sort of have a clear mind … just making sure I’m watching the ball closely.”
Warne, speaking on Sky Sports in the UK during Australia’s recent three-wicket win over Bangladesh, noted Smith needed to fire soon.
“If Steve Smith doesn’t get a score in the next couple of games then he’ll feel the pressure. He needs a score for himself and the team,” Warne said.
Smith was installed as T20 captain last month, with national selectors wanting the astute tactician leading the side in all three formats.
The 26-year-old was bowled around his legs by Bangladesh left-armer Mustafizur Rahman in Bengaluru, a rare mode of dismissal for someone so strong on the leg side.
“I haven’t missed too much on my pads I reckon over the last two years so I’m not too disappointed about it,” Smith said.
“I’m not thinking about it too much. That happens in cricket every now and then and I’ll hopefully hit the next one for four.”
-AAP