Brad Haddin backs Steve Smith to make comeback in the IPL after century against Perth Scorchers in BBL

Former Australian wicket-keeper Brad Haddin has put his weight behind Steve Smith to make a comeback in the Indian Premier League. After a good run in the Border-Gavaskar trophy against India, Smith continued his rich form in the Big Bash League for the Sydney Sixers.

The right-hander scored a blistering knock of 121 runs off only 64 balls with the help of 10 fours and seven sixes. Smith recently scored 314 runs in five Test matches against India in the BGT at an average of 34.89.

Meanwhile, Smith went unsold in the IPL 2025 mega-auction and hasn’t played in the tournament since 2022. Smith, who formerly led the Rajasthan Royals and Rising Pune Supergiant, was seen doing commentary during the 2024 season.

Haddin reckons Smith could return in the IPL if he keeps his purple patch going in the BBL. 

“He did it in the American league where they went through undefeated with Ricky Ponting’s team … but his role for the last 10 years (for Australia) has been to bat in the middle and play spin, get off strike and accumulate runs,” Haddin said (via Yahoo Sports)

“He’ll be back in the IPL. There’s no doubt in my mind about that. (Against Perth) Steve Smith scored all around the wicket. He put pressure back on the bowlers… he plays a different role now. He sees himself as a power hitter. It was an absolute masterclass from Smith,” he added

Smith scored 336 in nine matches at an average of 56 in Major League Cricket 2024 while leading Washington Freedom to glory.

Smith has all the experience under his belt and he could

definitely add a lot of value. The right-hander has scored 2485 runs in 103 IPL matches at an average of 34.51 and a strike rate of 128.09.