Former Australian captain Steve Smith has announced his return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the upcoming 2023 season. However, the news comes with a twist, as Smith will not be representing his former team, the Rajasthan Royals, but instead, he will be joining a new franchise in what he calls an “exceptional and passionate team.”
Smith, who is regarded as one of the best batsmen in the world, has been a regular fixture in the IPL since 2010, playing for various teams over the years. He spent the last two seasons with the Rajasthan Royals, but the team’s poor performance in recent years, finishing last in the 2021 season, has prompted Smith to explore other options.
In a statement released on social media, Smith expressed his excitement about the upcoming season and his new team. “I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be joining an exceptional and passionate team for the upcoming IPL season,” he wrote. “I can’t wait to get back to India and be a part of the action once again.”
While Smith did not reveal the name of his new team, reports suggest that he may be joining the newly formed Lucknow Super Giants, which is one of two new franchises that are set to join the IPL in 2023. The team is owned by the Sanjiv Goenka-owned RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group, which also owns the Rising Pune Supergiants.
Smith’s move to a new team is not entirely surprising, given the uncertainty surrounding the Rajasthan Royals and their plans for the upcoming season. The team has struggled in recent years, failing to make the playoffs in the last three seasons, and there have been reports of a possible change in ownership and management.
Smith’s decision to join a new team also reflects the changing dynamics of the IPL, which has seen a significant shift in the balance of power in recent years. While established teams like Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings continue to dominate, new franchises like Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bangalore have emerged as strong contenders, thanks to their young and talented players and innovative strategies.
For Smith, the move to a new team represents an opportunity to start fresh and contribute to a team that is hungry for success. It also allows him to showcase his skills on a new platform and compete against some of the best players in the world.
As the IPL prepares for its 2023 season, the addition of new teams and the return of star players like Smith are sure to generate excitement and anticipation among cricket fans around the world. With the league continuing to grow in popularity and reach, the stage is set for another thrilling season of T20 cricket, with Smith and his new team poised to make their mark on the IPL.
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