Tag: Steve Smith

Early Life & Background

Steven Peter Devereux Smith was born on 2 June 1989 in Kogarah, Sydney, to Peter (a chemist) and Gillian (an English homemaker). Raised with a strong work ethic, he spent summers in the nets practicing — a habit that later became legendary. Steve Smith attended Menai High School but left at 17 to play club cricket in England for Sevenoaks Vine, even earning interest from Surrey’s second XI. Holding dual Australian-British citizenship, he was eligible to play for England but ultimately prioritized his Australian roots.

Personal Traits & Lifestyle

Smith is known for his intense nets routine, obsessive practice, and trademark pre-ball “fidgety” stance. Loyal to his routines, he often dreams about match prep — even once forgetting pads in a nightmare . Off-field, he’s reportedly fond of painting, stargazing, collecting cricket memorabilia, and supporting the Sydney Roosters in rugby.

Beyond the sporting arena, his hobbies include leisurely beach walks near his home in New South Wales, solving puzzles and crosswords to sharpen his mind, and reading biographies—particularly of high performers and sporting legends. He’s also an avid collector of cricket memorabilia, with a deep appreciation for the game’s rich history.

Personal Life

Steve Smith began dating Dani Willis, a commerce and law student at Macquarie University, in 2011. Their relationship grew steadily through Smith’s rising cricket career, and the couple got engaged in June 2017 during a romantic holiday in New York City. They tied the knot on 15 September 2018 in a picturesque ceremony at Berrima, New South Wales. While the couple does not have children yet, they often share glimpses of their travels and home life on social media, showcasing a strong and supportive bond.

Dani has been a consistent presence at Smith’s matches, often seen cheering him on during major tournaments. Away from the spotlight, the two enjoy spending time at home, travelling together, and maintaining a relatively private lifestyle. Smith also comes from a close-knit family, which includes his older sister, Kristie, and his parents, Peter and Gillian Smith. Despite the demands of international cricket, he has remained deeply connected to his roots, often crediting his family and Dani for providing emotional balance and strength throughout the highs and lows of his career.

Youth & Domestic Career

Smith appeared in the 2008 Under‑19 World Cup, contributing 114 runs and 7 wickets. He made his first-class debut for New South Wales in the 2007/08 season . After returning from England, he debuted in domestic cricket and the Big Bash League for Sydney Sixers . By 2010, his consistent performances earned him selection for Australia T20, ODI, and Test sides.

International Career

Steve Smith made his T20I debut on 5 February 2010 vs Pakistan, followed by ODIs on 19 February 2010 vs West Indies, and Tests on 13 July 2010 against Pakistan.

Format Matches Innings Runs Balls Faced High Score Average Strike Rate
Test 118 210 10,424 19,438 239 56.35 53.63
ODI 170 154 5,800 6,669 164 43.28 86.97
T20 67 55 1,094 872 90 24.86 125.46

He ranked as ICC’s No. 1 Test batsman, and became the fourth Australian to surpass 10,000 Test runs on 29 January 2025. His elegant technique and consistency have earned high praise from Virat Kohli, Marnus Labuschagne, and many analysts.

IPL Career

  • Debut: 2012 with Pune Warriors

  • Overall: 103 matches, 2,485 runs, average 34.51, SR 128.09, with 1 century & 11 fifties

  • Best IPL score: 101

  • Auction history: Max price ₹12.5 Cr (Rajasthan Royals in 2018–20); last played in 2021 for Delhi Capitals

  • IPL 2025: Unsold; focus shifted to Big Bash Leagues and Major League Cricket

Despite missing IPL 2025, he delivered an unbeaten 121 in BBL 2025 for Sydney Sixers, equalling the league’s century record.

Fitness, Injuries & Comebacks

Steve Smith missed early matches of the 3-match Test series vs West Indies starting 3 July 2025 due to a finger injury sustained during the ICC World Test Championship final vs South Africa. Australian captain Pat Cummins confirmed he had rejoined the squad for the 2nd Test in Barbados, signaling fitness.

He also dealt with earlier hand injuries before the 2nd Test against India (Dec 2024). Known for grit and preparation, Smith overcame a 12-month ban (ball‑tampering) and returned stronger, regaining form in Ashes and World Cups.