Australia captain Michael Clarke couldn’t stop praising Steve Smith for his match-winning ton against India in the World Cup semifinal, saying that talented batsman would continue scoring big.
“I can’t speak highly enough for the way he’s (Smith) batting at the moment. He’s showing his class. But most importantly, I think the one thing I’ve learnt through my career is getting into good form and scoring runs is a fantastic feeling, but still, to go to training the next day to work on your game. That’s what makes you a great player, and that’s what I’ve been really proud with Smithy,” Clarke said.
Clarke said that he is not one bit surprised with Smith’s form.
“I can’t say I’m surprised he’s getting the results as he’s training hard. He has earned it. I think there’s no doubt that there’s a long, long way to go in his career. There’s a lot more runs to score, but he’s certainly leading the way at the moment. He’s standing up and he’s certainly made the most of the opportunity he’s got at No. 3 in One Day cricket,” Clarke lavished praise on his deputy.
There was a pat in the back for Mitchell Johnson also for his 9-ball-27 run cameo and then getting the big wickets of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
“Yeah, two crucial wickets, two big prize wickets, aren’t theyIJ I’ve always said Mitchell making runs gives him confidence with the ball. Tonight was a good example of that. Mitch is Mitch. He’s a class performer, consistently. He probably hasn’t had the standout tournament expected of him. But I think he’s done a fantastic job throughout this tournament. Two crucial wickets and I couldn’t be more proud of our bowling unit in general,” said Clarke.
The only time that the conference struck a discordant note was when Clarke was asked about his individual form. “I think I’m doing all right. I think my record is pretty good up against anybody in the world. I’m not concerned at all,” he commented.