Steve Smith is poised to make his debut in the UK’s The Hundred after officially signing with the Welsh Fire on the tournament’s deadline day. Alongside Smith, several other prominent Australian players, including Marcus Stoinis, Meg Lanning, and Megan Schutt, have also been confirmed for the 2025 edition. Notable international stars such as New Zealand’s Trent Boult, Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan, and South Africans David Miller, Faf du Plessis, and Heinrich Klaasen have joined in this round of signings.
The completion of team rosters for both men’s and women’s tournaments will unfold during the draft on March 12. Smith’s new role will see him collaborating with Australian batting legend Michael Hussey, who enters his third season as head coach of Welsh Fire.
Smith was initially signed to the Welsh Fire for the tournament’s inaugural season, but his participation was thwarted by the COVID-19 pandemic, causing a delay in the competition. With the women’s tournament kicking off on August 5, just a day ahead of the men’s event, excitement is building for the matches.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Smith stated, “I’m delighted to be joining Welsh Fire later this summer. I was due to be involved with The Hundred at the beginning of the competition so it’s great to finally be able to make it to Wales. I’ve watched The Hundred from afar, and I can’t wait to be involved. It looks a lot of fun, and obviously, the cricket is world-class, with talent at every team.”
In addition, Marcus Stoinis is set to represent the Trent Rockets, while Meg Lanning is signed with the Oval Invincibles, and Megan Schutt will play for Birmingham Phoenix. Currently, Smith is leading the Australian team in the 50-over Champions Trophy being held in Pakistan.