IPL 2021: Steve Smith lays down on ground with pain after being hit on thigh

The clash between Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders marked Steve Smith’s maiden assignment in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021’s UAE leg. As mentioned by DC skipper Rishabh Pant during toss, Smith came in as opener Prithvi Shaw sustained a niggle. Although Smith hadn’t played cricket for a while, he was pretty impressive against KKR at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

Smith, who has been a middle-order batter for the best part of his career, opened DC’s innings alongside Shikhar Dhawan. He tackled the new ball with precision and played some delightful shots. He even looked all set to put up a substantial score. However, Lockie Ferguson dismissed him for a 34-ball 39. Interestingly, the veteran Australian batter was hit on the thigh a ball before getting out.

Apparently, it was the first ball of the 13th over and Smith premeditated a scoop shot in order to earn runs behind the wickets. He subsequently shuffled across his stumps and bent down to get underneath the ball. However, Ferguson’s dipping full toss outfoxed Smith and the ball smashed his inner thigh after taking an inside edge.

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— Simran (@CowCorner9) September 28, 2021

Steve Smith dismissed right after sustaining a blow on thigh  

The former Australian captain looked in excruciating pain and laid down on the ground for few seconds. He, nevertheless, got up quickly to continue batting. However, the following delivery saw the end of Smith’s stay. Ferguson bowled a fast delivery into the stumps and disturbed the timber. Smith cleared his front leg and swung across the line but could only manage an inside edge. Nevertheless, the Sharjah track is slow and assisting the pacers.

Hence, Smith’s contribution may come in handy. Meanwhile, KKR won the toss in the game and unsurprisingly opted to bowl. The decision seemed pretty fruitful as the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, and Shimron Hetmyer couldn’t come to the party. However, chasing any sort of total on this track might not be that easy.

It has to be noted that Delhi Capitals have already secured a berth in the playoffs, having won eight of their first 10 games. Hence, they are now aiming to finish among the top two. On the contrary, KKR need to win almost all their remaining games to enter the next stage.