Steve Smith Eyes LA Olympics 2028, Keeps T20I Dreams Alive Amid World Cup Snub

Australia batting maestro Steve Smith has accepted his omission from the T20 World Cup preliminary squad, but the veteran remains resolute in his pursuit of international 20-20 glory with eyes on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Smith, who is in top form in the Big Bash League, has moved focus to the 2028 LA Olympics, striving to represent Australia in T20 cricket's Olympic debut.

The former Australia captain keeps T20I hopes alive, driven by his Olympic ambition.

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"I always want to play for Australia in big tournaments. But I think that ship's sailed. I reckon they've got two opening batters that are doing pretty well. I'm relaxed doing what I can here and having some fun," Smith said, as quoted by Espncricinfo.

"My main goal, as I've said before, is to get on the team when the Olympics are rolling around. I'd be keen to do that. That'd be pretty cool. Keep doing what I'm doing and you never know," he added.

Smith's T20 form has been on fire. Since his last T20I in February 2024, he's averaged over 51 with a strike rate of 156.

“I’m trying to get a bit stronger and hit the ball a little bit further. I’ve got to try and keep up with some of the guys who hit the ball a mile. But honestly, I don’t think a lot’s changed. I’ve had the opportunity now just to open the batting. Obviously, starting with two out, it kind of suits me. I hit the ball to some unique areas. It’s nice to bat up top like most people want to do,” he stated.

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“I stopped playing one-day cricket to play a few more franchise things so I can keep playing this format more and get the rhythm of the game. It can be tough sometimes when you come and play three games and then go away and play another three games six months later. So to be able to play some consistent games and just get the rhythm of the game, that’s pretty important,” concluded the legendary batter.

Australia has announced their T20 World Cup squad, with Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head cementing their spots as openers, edging out Steve Smith.