Pak vs Aus: Always wished to play in front of enthusiastic Pakistani crowd, says Steve Smith

RAWALPINDI: Australia’s vice-captain Steve Smith has expressed his excitement to go out in Pindi Stadium for the first Test against the home side and witness the Pakistani crowd who is famous for their enthusiasm and passion towards the game.

In a virtual press conference on Tuesday, Smith said their historic tour of Pakistan has a lot to offer for viewers around the world in terms of competitive cricket and crowd support as the people here missed watching the Aussies playing at home.

“It is great to be here and we were really excited for this tour. It is a historic tour in terms of cricket and the support we already got from the fans here. I’ve listened a lot about Pakistani people and their love for the game,” the right-handed batter shared.

“I always wished to play in front of such an enthusiastic Pakistani crowd. We are currently in isolation and desperately waiting to go out for our first training session here,” he maintained.

Playing Conditions in Pakistan

Talking about conditions in Pakistan, Smith said it will be difficult to play for the first time here. “Obviously, it is our first tour to the country and it will be difficult to assess the conditions. We’ll go out for training and try to look at the pitch and conditions to prepare accordingly,” he responded to a query.

Pakistan's Security 

With regards to security in Pakistan, the 32-year-old cricketer feels completely satisfied with the arrangements and said the players aren’t considering the reports regarding fake emails sent to a squad member’s family.

“I don’t think players usually use social media on tours. Such things occur often on these platforms but we are completely satisfied with the security here and looked after well so far,” he asserted.

Strength Of Home Side

To a query about Pakistan’s strength at home, the Australian said they are a good side, especially in bowling unit having the likes of Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf.

“I think Pakistan is one of the top sides and they are too good at their home. Their bowling has always been phenomenal having the likes of Shaheen and Haris. So yes, it will be a quality contest overall,” he concluded.

It is pertinent to mention here that Australia will play first Test in Pakistan after 23 years from March 4. The Aussies landed in Pakistan on February 27 and after remaining in isolation for a day, they will go out for training.

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