‘He Can Earn Himself Big Pay Cheques’: Mitchell Johnson Accuses Steve Smith Of Eying Lucrative T20 Leagues In Future

Former Australian cricketer, Mitchell Johnson, suggested that Steve Smith's participation in T20Is might be driven by the desire to enhance his prospects in lucrative T20 leagues in the future.

Mitchell Johnson, the former Australian fast bowler, has accused star batsman Steve Smith of participating in T20 Internationals with the intention of enhancing his prospects to feature in T20 leagues worldwide once he concludes his international career. These surprising comments were made following Steve Smith's subpar performances in the recently concluded T20 International series against New Zealand.

Australia asserted their dominance over New Zealand, securing a 3-0 victory in the T20 International series. Despite the overall success of the Men in Yellow, Steve Smith struggled to make an impact. Often hailed as one of cricket's greatest Test batter ever, Smith looked like a fish out of water during the NZ vs AUS T20I series.

Johnson Says 'Maybe There Is A Dangling Carrot' For Steve Smith

Australia experimented with various strategies, including having Steve Smith open the innings. However, the experienced batter, despite excelling in other formats, faced difficulties yet again in T20 Internationals. Mitchell Johnson has suggested that Steve Smith's motivation might be financial gain, even if his T20I performances have not been up to par.

"I wonder if international T20 cricket is something he really wants to play. Of course, he will most likely play in a few different leagues around the world when his Test career is over and so maybe there is a dangling carrot in that he wants to perform at international level and at a World Cup to boost his chances of playing in leagues where he can earn himself big pay cheques," Johnson wrote in a column for The Nightly.

‘I’m Not Really Too Fussed’: Steve Smith

On the contrary, Steve Smith has expressed uncertainty about opening for his team in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. He acknowledges having a fair opportunity to showcase his skills but recognizes the settled top three with David Warner, Travis Head, and Mitchell Marsh. Smith believes there may not be a spot for him in that lineup. He mentioned that he won't be bothered if he doesn't secure a place in the team.

"I got a couple of decent balls to be fair. (Adam) Milne got one to take off in the second game, which was tough. Lockie, when that sun was setting, it was quite difficult to pick up and he gave me a nice in-swinger. Look, it wasn’t ideal, but it is what it is and whatever will be, will be from here. I’m not really sure what (selectors) want to do. I’m not really too fussed either way. If I’m there, I’m there. If I’m not, I’m not," said Smith while speaking to AAP.