Overview
- South Africa confirmed Jason Smith in their 15-man T20 World Cup squad for India and Sri Lanka, a selection viewed as unexpected over more established options such as Tristan Stubbs.
- Smith hit 22 off seven balls for MI Cape Town in a rain-reduced win over Joburg Super Kings at Newlands, a late cameo that helped seal the result.
- Nicholas Pooran, who top-scored 33 off 15 and was named player of the match, praised Smith’s raw power and said Indian conditions could suit his game.
- Pooran added that Smith has a lot to learn and must adapt quickly to the demands of T20 cricket at international level.
- Former Proteas coach Eric Simons welcomed Smith’s clean hitting but cautioned that one short innings does not prove readiness, underscoring calls for consistency before next month’s tournament.