Steve Smith

Steve Smith, the number two ranked batsman in the world and one of Australia's best ever batsmen, has signed for Sussex on a short-term deal to acclimatise to ...

The Ashes will not be decided by Steve Smith playing a few games of county cricket in the build-up. As for the bowlers playing against Smith, it offers a fantastic opportunity to test their skills against the very best. The signing of Smith is not only beneficial for Sussex, but also represent a massive coup for County Cricket more broadly. Even if he does tear up the championship, it won’t necessarily translate to Ashes success. Moreover, it is not just with the bat where he will have an impact. He joins compatriot Marnus Labuschagne — the number one batsman in the world — in being afforded the chance to hone his skills against the swinging ball on England’s infamous green seamers.