Steven Smith Eyes LA 2028 Olympics After Explosive BBL Century Despite T20 World Cup Omission

Steven Smith has come to terms with missing the upcoming T20 World Cup, but the Australian batting maestro has his sights firmly set on a different prize – representing his country at the LA 2028 Olympics.

BBL Brilliance Continues at the SCG

Smith has been in scintillating form during the Big Bash League 2025-26 season, delivering performances that remind cricket fans why he remains one of the most talented batsmen of his generation. His remarkable 42-ball century at the SCG, studded with nine towering sixes, showcased the aggressive evolution of his T20 game.

The Sydney Sixers opener followed that spectacular knock with 54 off 40 deliveries against Brisbane Heat, propelling his team into the Qualifier final and demonstrating remarkable consistency at the top of the order.

Australia's Selection Conundrum

Despite Smith's pyrotechnics, Australia's selectors have maintained their faith in the established opening partnership of Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head. Chair of selectors George Bailey acknowledged Smith's exceptional form while explaining the selection rationale.

"It's a great problem to have, isn't it? He's playing incredibly well, as he has done in the BBL for the last couple of years, in a position that we've got really good coverage in. But if there were moving parts and something was required around there, no doubt his name would be in the mix."

Smith's Candid Acceptance

The former Australian captain has taken a philosophical approach to his T20I exclusion, acknowledging the reality of Australia's depth in the opening positions.

"I always want to play for Australia in big tournaments. But I think that ship's sailed. I reckon they've got two opening batters that are doing pretty well. I'm relaxed doing what I can here and having some fun."

The Olympic Ambition

With cricket set to feature at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Smith has identified a new target that would see him representing Australia at age 39.

"My main goal, as I've said before, is to get in the team when the Olympics is rolling around. I'd be keen to do that. That'd be pretty cool. Keep doing what I'm doing and you never know."

Stunning T20 Statistics

Since his last appearance for Australia in early 2024, Smith's T20 numbers have been extraordinary:

• Average: 51.18 across T20s (including The Hundred)
• Strike Rate: 156
• BBL Form: Two centuries and two half-centuries in five innings
• All four BBL centuries have come as an opener

The Evolution of Smith's T20 Game

Smith reflected on his transformation from a middle-order anchor to an explosive opener.

"I've played some different roles. A lot of the time when I was playing, I was the guy that had to stick it together in the middle. Since opening the batting, it gives me an opportunity to just be free from ball one, see it as I see it and take it on and have some fun out there."

Physical Transformation

The 2023 Champions Trophy marked Smith's retirement from ODI cricket, a strategic decision that allowed him to pursue more franchise opportunities. During the previous off-season in New York, where he now resides, Smith dedicated himself to strength training.

"I'm trying to get a bit stronger and hit the ball a little bit further. I've got to try and keep up with some of the guys that hit the ball a mile."

The Franchise Cricket Journey

Smith's decision to step away from ODIs was calculated to maintain rhythm in the T20 format through consistent franchise cricket.

"I stopped playing one-day cricket to play a few more franchise things so I can just keep playing this format more and getting the rhythm of the game. To be able to play some consistent games and just get the rhythm of the game, that's pretty important."

What's Next for Smith

The Sydney Sixers will have at least two more matches this week, with Smith guaranteed further opportunities to showcase his form. If they defeat Perth Scorchers on Tuesday, they will host the BBL final at the SCG. Otherwise, they will stage the Challenger on Thursday for another shot at the decider.

Following the BBL conclusion, Smith's next cricket assignment will likely be Major League Cricket in the United States during June and July.

Looking Ahead to LA 2028

While the T20 World Cup may have passed him by, Steven Smith's Olympic dream provides a compelling narrative for the next chapter of his illustrious career. At 39, competing at the Olympics would represent a fitting capstone for one of Australia's greatest batsmen – and his current form suggests he has no intention of slowing down.