Smith 'in best shape' despite not picking up bat in months
01 June, 2020
Australia star Steve Smith admitted Monday he has barely found a bat since cricket turn off, but said he was in his best physical condition in years.
The 30-year-old, the world's number 1 Test batsman, has been out of action since March, when Australia's one-day series against New Zealand was abandoned due to the coronavirus pandemic.
He returned to training along with his New South Wales teammates Monday because they await the green light for competitive cricket to get started on again, targeting a home one-day series against Zimbabwe in August.
"I feel like I've had a pre-season the last month or two. Got myself into most likely the best shape I am in years. Plenty of running, plenty of gym stuff," Smith said.
"It's been two months of good hard work and now back with the boys, which is great."
But without net practice, he has barely picked up his bat.
"I haven't touched a bat, really. A number of little drills at home but that's about any of it," said Smith, who has plundered a lot more than 7,000 Test runs.
"I've just tried to switch off from it a bit, which I don't do frequently. I was just focusing on getting myself fit and strong and refreshing mentally.
"It's been a little different but I'm sure over time it will oftimes be a very important thing to renew after what was a fairly long year-and-a-half because the World Cup and Ashes and summer here.
"I'm refreshed and ready to go," he added.
If the virus had not struck, Smith could have experienced the plane to Bangladesh this month for a two-Test series, after playing in the postponed Indian Premier League.
He was among six Cricket Australia-contracted players in the brand new South Wales squad who rejoined their state teammates Monday, including David Warner, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon.
The squad has been split into four groups who alternate morning and afternoon indoor gym and skills sessions within COVID-19 return-to-training protocols.
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