Smith's Cape Town return may spur Australia vice-captain

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 24 Oct, 18:50 · Archive

Steve Smith will return to Cape Town for Australia's third Test against South Africa after a frustrating tour with the bat.

Australia will return to Cape Town for the third Test of their tour of South Africa, with Steve Smith set to play despite a frustrating run with the bat. The 37-year-old has scored only 25, 27, 28 and 3 across the first two Tests at Durban and Gqeberha. A neck issue caused him significant discomfort during the second Test at St George's Park, limiting his movement, though he was reported to be Australia's best batsman in the first innings of that match.

Cape Town carries particular weight for Smith. Australia's last Test there resulted in his year-long ban following the ball-tampering scandal. Much larger crowds are expected at Newlands than at the first two venues, and Smith is all but certain to draw attention.

Australia's Travis Head said the atmosphere could bring out the best in Smith. Head noted that Smith 'handles it well' and that crowds sometimes bring the best out of him. He pointed to Smith's performance in 2019 in England, where Smith averaged 110.57 on his return from the ban. Josh Hazlewood made similar comments before the tour, also referencing Smith's run-spree during the 2019 Ashes.

How it is being reported

• Smith's Cape Town return may bring out best in himSteve Smith has endured a frustrating tour of South Africa with the bat, but Travis Head believes a return to Cape Town could spur on Australia's vice-captain.Perth Now · 24 Oct, 18:12
• Smith's Cape Town return may bring out best in himSteve Smith has endured a frustrating tour of South Africa with the bat, but Travis Head believes a return to Cape Town could spur on Australia's vice-captain.The West Australian · 24 Oct, 18:12

In this story: Steve Smith · Travis Head · Josh Hazlewood · Australia · South Africa · Cape Town · Newlands · England

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