Champion batsman Steve Smith is determined to live in the present as he prepares for the series against Pakistan and is not looking at any thoughts beyond the next Test match.
The 34-year-old, who will play his 103rd Test in the match against Pakistan starting Thursday in Perth, has been the subject of speculation over his playing future this year.
During a wide-ranging conversation with Fox Cricket on Monday, the 2015 ICC Cricketer of the Year said he was focusing on the task ahead rather than organizing his thoughts for the future.
“I really don’t like to look too far ahead. And you know, I take it game by game, game by game, and enjoy the present moment.
“We’re going to sort through all this stuff and whatever the legacy is, whatever it looks like, it’s not something for me to really care about.
“I’m not really upset (about it).” Other people can talk about this kind of thing. “I just go about my business day in and day out and just enjoy it.”
His manager Warren Craig responded to chatter about Smith’s retirement earlier this month when he told the Sydney Morning Herald he could “debunk it at this time”.
Watch the Australia vs Pakistan match on Kayo Sports. Every Test match is live with no commercial breaks during play. Are you new to Kayo? Start your free trial today
The former Australia captain was hard at work on Monday in Perth during what was an optional training day for the national team at WACA Stadium.
Smith was Australia’s first middle-overs batsman, hitting a string of fours during a 30-minute session as the temperature reached 32 degrees Celsius in Perth.
The WACA Stadium holds fond memories for the New South Welshman, who scored his maiden Test century at home there a decade ago during the Ashes series.
Despite the intense year Australia have had, Smith said he was relishing his role as vice-captain and enjoying a mentorship role with the younger batsmen.
“I like to do my job, especially if there are any young players coming up, I want to try to help them where I can,” he said.
“My door is always open if any of the young people want to talk about anything and have a conversation. I’m there to help them learn from my experiences as well.
“And then to support the captain as well. That’s my job as vice-captain, to help him wherever I can. It’s been fun. I’m enjoying it.”
Fox Cricket Extension The interview with Steve Smith will be available on Foxsports.com.au ahead of the opening Test of the summer against Pakistan.
