steve smith wtc final press conference

Steve Smith was brimming with excitement as he fronted the press two days ahead of the much-anticipated World Test Championship final. From praising the firepower in the South African side to reflecting on the significance of the Test championship for serial winners like Australia, Smith was in the mood to immerse himself in the essence of Test cricket. Smith, Australia’s vice-captain, will be central to his team’s hopes of retaining the prestigious Test crown. The defending champions are set to face first-time finalists South Africa at Lord’s from 11 to 15 June. Australia have fond memories of London, having secured their maiden WTC title at The Oval-just seven miles from Lord’s-by beating India. Having returned from a three-month break following the Champions Trophy, Smith said he is feeling as good as ever and relishing the return to the big stage. “Yeah, I know how our team is. We’ve been training really well over the past week or so. All the batters feel like they’re in a good place. We’re just excited now to go out and play another Test Championship final. Obviously, we’ve got some fond memories from last year just down the road, and now coming to Lord’s-it’s a place where traditionally we’ve played pretty good cricket. Facing South Africa is a great challenge. The Dukes ball is different from what we usually play with at home or away, but we’re excited for this contest,” he said. This will be Australia’s second WTC final appearance, equalling India’s record in the tournament, which was introduced in 2019. They are aiming to become the first side to win the title twice. New Zealand won the inaugural edition by defeating India, while Australia outclassed India in 2023. THREE-MATCH WTC FINALS? Asked whether he, like many others, believed the WTC final should be played over three matches, Smith welcomed the idea, though noted the scheduling challenges it would pose. Notably, Virat Kohli, who retired from Tests earlier this year, had advocated for a three-match series to decide the World Test champions back in 2021. “I haven’t thought too much about it, but yeah, maybe a three-match series would be nice. Good luck fitting it into the calendar, which is already pretty packed. But if it could be done, it’d be pretty cool,” Smith said. Smith declined to compare the significance of the Ashes and the WTC final but emphasised that the Australians are fully focused on the task at hand, with the Ashes still some way off. “The Ashes is always a big series, but you can’t look too far ahead. Every game matters now with the Test Championship. That’s the reason it was introduced-to make each Test more meaningful. We go to the West Indies next after this, and that’ll be our focus then. Right now, it’s about this match,” he said. SOUTH AFRICA DESERVE TO PLAY FINAL: SMITH When asked about the speculation surrounding South Africa’s qualification for the final, Smith was unequivocal: “Yeah, they’re a good side. They’re here for a reason. I don’t really understand how all the percentage stuff works, but they made it into the top two, and they’ve earned their spot,” he said. South Africa played 12 matches in the WTC 2023-25 cycle-seven fewer than both Australia and India-but won eight to top the table and seal their place in the final. Smith has had some unforgettable battles with South Africa over the years. He averages 44 against them, with 854 runs and two centuries across 12 Tests. “South Africa have always been a strong side. We’ve had some great contests in both Australia and South Africa. Now playing them here at Lord’s adds a new dimension. It’s another challenge, and one we’re looking forward to. From what I’ve heard, ticket sales are strong-hopefully, we can put on a good show for everyone,” he said. Published By: Akshay Ramesh Published On: Jun 9, 2025