“Australian Coach Keeps Options Open for Steve Smith to Play ‘As Long As Possible’”

Australian head coach Andrew McDonald has suggested that Steve Smith could continue representing the Test team “for as long as possible” following his impressive recent performances.

At the onset of the home summer series against India, the 35-year-old faced scrutiny over his position in the Test lineup due to a period of underwhelming form.

However, after scoring two centuries against India and another pair against Sri Lanka, Smith has solidified his place in the baggy green, looking set to don it throughout the remainder of the year.

Smith showcased his skills during the 2-0 series victory in Galle, taking over captaincy duties from Pat Cummins, as Australia now sets its sights on the World Test Championship final.

Additionally, The Ashes are on the horizon next summer, potentially serving as a farewell not only for Smith but also for Usman Khawaja.

McDonald has indicated that the coaching team and selectors will refrain from imposing any specific timeline on Smith, instead allowing the champion batsman to determine his own playing future.

“We’re fortunate to have him … he’s entering another prime phase,” McDonald stated in an interview with AAP.

“We hope he doesn’t decide to step away from such form too early. He approaches each series and evaluates his performance once it concludes.

“At his age, and with the level of achievement he has reached, he has every right to do so.

“When the day comes for him to depart, it will leave a significant void. We can’t predict when that will happen yet.

“As a coach, my wish is to have him with us for as long as possible.”

Smith’s next challenge will be to captain the national side in the forthcoming Champions Trophy, marking its return for the first time since 2017.

The Australians will be without Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Marsh for this tournament, while all-rounder Marcus Stoinis has declared his retirement from ODI cricket.