Star Australian batter Steven Smith did not register himself for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 auction after remaining unsold in last year's auction, leaving fans disappointed. However, the 33-year-old surprised everyone on Monday (March 27) as he took to Twitter to announce his participation in 2023 season of IPL, but with a twist. Smith said he would be part of the world's richest T20 tournament this year, but didn't reveal his exact role.
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Uncertainty prevails over what is going to be Smith's exact role in IPL 2023 but as per several media reports, the stylish batter will be on the mic for the TV or digital broadcaster as a commentator. An official confirmation is awaited.
"Namaste India. I have got some exciting news for you. I am joining IPL 2023. I am joining an exceptional and passionate team in India," Smith said in a video posted on Twitter account.
For most of his IPL career, Smith played for Rajasthan Royals (RR), from 2014 until 2020. His last appearance in the T20 tournament was for Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals in IPL 2022. In what can be considered as one of Smith's greatest accomplishments as Australian captain, he led his national team to a historic 2-1 series win in three-match One-Day-International series against India, in India.
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The first match of IPL 2023 is scheduled on 31 March between four-time winners Chennai Super Kings and defending champions Gujarat Titans.
The official television broadcasters of IPL 2023, Star Sports, recently released a star-studded commentary line-up for the competition, which includes some legends like Sunil Gavaskar, Jacques Kallis, Matthew Hayden and Virender Sehwag. In addition, the official broadcasters have confirmed that they will be providing the feed of their coverage in as many as nine languages.