Steve Smith, the seasoned Australian batter, has addressed the criticism directed towards him as he gears up to captain the national team in the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka in Galle. The 35-year-old, who has been entrusted with the captaincy in Pat Cummins’ absence due to paternity leave, is focused on maintaining a positive team environment and staying unfazed by external opinions.
With Australia already securing their spot in the 2023-25 World Test Championship (WTC) final, the series against Sri Lanka will mark their final assignment in the current WTC cycle. Although Australia’s place in the final is confirmed, they remain eager to add another series victory to their accomplishments.
In an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald, Smith addressed criticism from a section of the Australian public regarding his return as captain. Smith said, “I mean, everyone’s entitled to their opinion. They can say whatever they like. I’m pretty comfortable in my own skin. The environment around the team has been good for a long time. I get on well with everyone inside. People are entitled to their opinion. They can say what they want.”