Sydney: Australia captain Michael Clarke couldn’t stop praising Steve Smith for his match-winning ton against India in the World Cup semifinal, saying that talented batsman would continue scoring big.
“I can’t speak highly enough for the way he’s (Smith) batting at the moment. He’s showing his class. But most importantly, I think the one thing I’ve learnt through my career is getting into good form and scoring runs is a fantastic feeling, but still, to go to training the next day to work on your game. That’s what makes you a great player, and that’s what I’ve been really proud with Smithy (nickname),” Clarke said at the post match media conference with the man-of-the-match centurion by his side.
Clarke said that he is not one bit surprised with Smith’s form. “I can’t say I’m surprised he’s getting the results he’s getting as he is training hard. He has earned it. I think there’s no doubt that there’s a long, long way to go in his career. There’s a lot more runs to score, but he’s certainly leading the way at the moment. He’s standing up and he’s certainly made the most of the opportunity he’s got at No. 3 in One Day cricket,” Clarke lavished praise for Smith.
Smith, who was sitting beside him was asked if the Indian bowlers played it into his hands by bowling to his strengths, Smith didn’t agree. Clarke felt that 320 was enough in the end.
“I did think 320 was enough, but I thought our bowlers had to execute very well. India’s batting line-up has been extremely successful throughout this tournament. They’ve got a lot of class, they’ve got a lot of experience in big games. My opinion was we had to try and bowl India out. No matter how many runs we scored, we were going to try and bowl India out.” siad Clarke. (PTI)
