Australian batsman Steve Smith spoke about his preparations for the upcoming Test series against Pakistan. He admitted that after the 2023 ICC World Cup, a week’s break helped him and now he feels that he is in a good place.

Australia will face Pakistan in the three-match Test series at home. It is fair to say that Steve Smith will play a crucial role for his team and will hold the key to his team in the series. The batsman has been the backbone of his team for the last decade and would be eager to perform in the upcoming series.

Steve Smith is an absolute beast in local conditions and it’s fair to say that if he sets the stage on fire there will be no stopping him. The 103-Test veteran hasn’t had a great run in this year’s Tests by his standards, but he would be a real threat to the opposition in the upcoming series.

Steve Smith, who is averaging 43 in 20 innings this year, said he’s focused on trusting what he’s done over a long period of time. He added that the entire Australian team is in good shape and are looking forward to taking the field. He said (quoted by Cricbuzz):

“I don’t have to reinvent the wheel. I have performed at a high level for a long period of time. (But) you’re right: it was probably below my standards of what I want. For me, it’s about not thinking too much, not exaggerating too much, not changing too much. I just go out and trust what I do and do it for longer periods of time, hoping to achieve great results and help our team succeed.

“It has been a very, very busy year. I certainly needed a little break after the World Cup. It was good to have a week at home, relax and refresh the mind and body as much as possible to prepare for this series. But now I feel like I’m in a good place. “I think the boys feel they are in a good place and are keen to get out there and play red-ball cricket again.”

It can be a challenge with a busy schedule – Steve Smith

Steve Smith also spoke about the Australian team’s busy schedule, stating that playing continuously can be a challenge and highlighting the importance of mental breaks. He also talked about how he spent time at home. He added:

“It can be challenging to have a pretty busy schedule, but at any time you can have a few days or a week to step away from the game and get your mental side back to a position where you can go out and perform.” At the international level, it is important.

“I got into golf a little bit and played a little bit at home. The guys are constantly laughing at this moment that I’m getting into golf.”

If Australia has to figure out their chances of winning against Pakistan, Steve Smith has to play a big role. He is currently the number 3 Test batsman and hopes to set the stage on fire in the upcoming series.