IPL 2023: Steve Smith joins commentary panel for forthcoming edition of the tournament

Steve Smith Press Conference. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

Australian cricketer Steven Smith had earlier confirmed his participation in the Indian Premier League 2023 saying that he was going to join ‘an exceptional and passionate team in India’. All pieces of the puzzle are now together as the prolific batter is all set to make his commentary debut and will be joining the panel of experts for the upcoming edition of the tournament.

Smith last played an IPL match in the 2021 edition, when he represented the Delhi Capitals. Having played nine editions of the cash-rich event, the 33-year-old has played 103 games and scored 2485 runs, with his highest score being an unbeaten 101. But he went unsold in the IPL 2022 mega auction and hence did not feature in the tournament.

But this time around, the stalwart will be donning the commentator’s hat as the official broadcasters of the tournament Star Sports confirmed the same on their official social media handle.

“Steve Smith has joined the expert panel for the marquee tournament. Smith will be making his broadcast debut with Star Sports, adding his invaluable insights and expertise to Star Sports’ already impressive roster of panelists,” the broadcaster said in an official statement.

Smith opted out of the IPL 2023 mini-auction that was held in December 2022. Before being a part of the Delhi Capitals in 2021, Smith had been a part of Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and now-defunct franchises Rising Pune Supergiant, Pune Warriors India, and Kochi Tuskers Kerala.

The 16th edition of the Indian Premier League is all set to get underway on March 31 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad as defending champions Gujarat Titans take on four-time champions Chennai Super Kings in the curtain raiser. The tournament will witness a total of 70 games in the league stage, which will be followed by an Eliminator, two Qualifiers, and the summit clash.