Paine Reflects on Smith’s Inspiring Journey in Cricket
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Synopsis
Tim Paine shares insights on Steve Smith's debut and incredible rise in Australian cricket ahead of his 10,000-run milestone, expressing confidence in Smith's continued contributions to the sport.
Key Takeaways
- Tim Paine comments on Steve Smith’s impressive cricket career.
- Smith is close to achieving 10,000 Test runs.
- Paine recalls Smith’s debut as a leg-spinner.
- Smith's unique batting style surprised many.
- There are no signs of Smith’s ambition dwindling.
New Delhi, Jan 29 (NationPress) Former Australian Test captain Tim Paine expressed his views on Steve Smith’s initial performance and his swift rise to becoming one of the finest cricketers in Australia, as he approaches the remarkable feat of 10,000 runs. Paine is confident that Smith still has plenty to offer the game.
Paine debuted for Australia alongside Smith in 2010 at Lord’s against Pakistan. Initially selected as a bowling all-rounder, Smith managed scores of 1 and 12 in his first Test, batting at the eighth position.
Paine noted that there were expectations for him to be merely a leg spinner with the potential to bat adequately at number eight or nine, yet no one anticipated that he would come to symbolize an entire cricketing era.
“In his second Test at Headingley, Smith made around 70. He was batting at nine and showcased some shots that indicated he was exceptionally talented.
“It was an unusual but pleasant surprise. We played several ODIs, and when the field was up, he displayed remarkable shots and sent the ball to some unexpected areas.
“Only Greg Chappell believed at that time that he could evolve into a world-class batsman. The rest of us thought he would remain a leg spinner and a capable number eight or nine batter.
“Witnessing his journey since has been nothing short of extraordinary. We are observing one of the greatest batsmen of all time,” Paine remarked to SEN1170.
Smith is on the brink of becoming the fourth Australian cricketer to reach 10,000 career Test runs, joining legends Ricky Ponting, Allan Border, and Steve Waugh. He currently sits at 9,999 runs after being dismissed in the second innings of the fifth Test against India in Sydney earlier this month.
“He still has a long path ahead if he wishes to continue. As long as his ambition is intact, which I believe it is, his reaction after reaching 10,000 runs will be significant, as it’s a long-term goal of his.
“With his current form and my understanding of him, he remains at an exceptionally high level. Once that diminishes, so will the drive, and there are no signs of that happening yet. I hope he can play for several more years,” Paine added.
