Steve Smith is set to make his long-awaited debut in the Pakistan Super League after signing with new franchise Sialkot Stallionz for the 2026 season.
The move marks a significant step in Smith’s efforts to revive his place in Australia’s T20 setup and keep alive his ambition of playing at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where cricket will feature for the first time.
Despite strong recent form, Smith was overlooked for Australia’s T20 World Cup squad, with selectors opting to stick with a settled top order led by Mitch Marsh and Travis Head.
However, the 36-year-old has shown no signs of slowing down. His decision to join the PSL reflects a clear intent to remain competitive in the shortest format and stay in contention for international selection.
Smith arrives in the PSL on the back of an outstanding Big Bash League season with the Sydney Sixers.
Opening the batting, he scored 299 runs in six innings, striking at an impressive rate and showcasing a more aggressive approach than earlier in his T20 career.
His campaign included a blistering century off just 41 balls and crucial knocks that carried the Sixers to the final. The performances helped silence doubts around his strike rate, which has often been cited as a weakness in T20 cricket.
Sialkot Stallionz are one of two new teams joining the PSL in 2026, alongside Hyderabad Kingsmen, expanding the league to eight franchises.
The Stallionz will be coached by former Australia Test captain Tim Paine, adding a strong Australian presence to the setup.
Smith has been secured as a direct signing under new league rules that allow franchises to lock in one marquee player ahead of the auction, scheduled for February 11.
The PSL will run from March 26 to May 3, overlapping once again with the Indian Premier League.
Smith was unsold at the IPL auction, making the PSL an ideal platform to continue his T20 journey against high-quality international competition. He will also face familiar rivals, including Babar Azam, adding further intrigue to his debut season.
While Smith has not played T20 internationals since 2024, his recent form suggests he still has plenty to offer. With consistent performances in franchise cricket and a clear long-term goal in mind, his PSL stint could prove crucial in shaping the final chapter of his T20 career.
