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'Best Australian Player': Pujara Backs Steve Smith to Rediscover Form in World Cup 2023

image-lo4h07k8Smith hasn't fired in the World Cup so far. (X.Com)

India's Test specialist Cheteshwar Pujara has backed 'Australia's best player ever' Steve Smith to rediscover his form with the bat and make a strong comeback in the remaining matches of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023. 

Steve Smith, Australia's number three batter, has had a dismal World Cup campaign so far, managing only 72 runs in four matches at an average of 18. Pujara, who shared the change room with Smith at Sussex, believes that Smith will rediscover his form.

Pujara's hot take on Smith

During a discussion on ESPN Cricinfo, Pujara was asked to name a batter who has been relatively quiet in the tournament but could perform well in the upcoming matches. Pujara had no hesitation in taking Smith's name. Justifying his choice, Pujara said:

"Steve Smith is undoubtedly the best player Australia has ever produced. While his performances in this World Cup haven't been remarkable, he is a resilient character who works diligently on his game. I am certain he has been putting in extensive work in the nets to regain his form. I am confident he will be well-prepared for the next game, and he is the one I am counting on to regain his form."

Having seen Smith from close quarters, Pujara has full confidence in the ability of the unorthodox batter. 

Smith had a promising start to the World Cup, displaying his authority and skills against India in Chennai, but he faced some unusual struggles after a peculiar DRS call during the game against Sri Lanka in Lucknow.

After losing the first two games of the 2023 World Cup, Australia has managed to recover with back-to-back victories, but lack of runs from Smith's bat is a concern for the five time World Cup winners. His experience and ability to anchor the innings are crucial for the team's success. He is the binder of the power packed Australian batting lineup. 

Australia's upcoming match against the Netherlands in Delhi presents an opportunity for Smith to break the cycle of low scores and deliver a substantial performance for himself and his team.