Proteas' new batting sensation embraces his return to international cricket

Proteas' new batting superstar Jason Smith is soaking up his return to the biggest stage in cricket, alongside the likes of Aiden Markram, Kagiso Rabada, and Corbin Bosch — all of whom he won the Under-19 World Cup with over a decade ago.

Smith's path has been entirely different from those of his SA Under-19 teammates, including Rabada, who broke into senior men's international cricket immediately after their 2014 World Cup triumph. Smith has had to take the long route to the highest level; a maturity that is evident in his shot selection and tactical understanding.

Ahead of the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, Smith has taken time to embrace the privilege of playing with his long-time teammates. Their journeys may have diverged, but the bond between the players has remained intact.

"The last time I was in India was just before my Under-19 World Cup. Aiden (Markram), Corbin (Bosch), and Lungi (Ngidi) were there. That was the first time we got to play together on the international stage," Smith said.

"We've been friends since youth cricket. It has made it a bit more special for me, knowing I've been selected to play with a group of guys I have a relationship with. They aren't just colleagues; they are guys I consider friends. I've actually been sharing a dressing room with them for a bit longer than the West Indies series. KG has always had my back and made that known a couple of months ago when I met him before the SA20."

Earlier this week, Smith showcased his skills during a warm-up match against India in Navi Mumbai in front of over 40,000 fans. He smashed 35 off 23 balls, including four boundaries and one maximum, effectively introducing himself to the global stage.

Smith also relishes the batter-friendly conditions. Given he is based in Durban for South African domestic cricket — where dew is a factor — he feels at home in India due to the similar climate.

"The last game was something to remember. That's probably the biggest crowd I've played in front of. It was quite nice; the crowd was very welcoming and the atmosphere was good. I don't really block it out — I actually soak it in," Smith said.

"Domestically, I play in Durban, so I'm quite fortunate in the sense that conditions are pretty similar. Just getting to experience that in the warm-up match will help us a lot. I think the conditions are pretty good and it's just a taste of what's to come."

Since joining the Proteas' setup, Smith says coach Shukri Conrad has encouraged him to play freely.

"It's been pretty clear. I've had a conversation with Shuks," he said. "He’s just made sure that I express myself and rather 'live by my sword' than die by someone else’s. In the shorter format, you have to take the game on."

South Africa will play their first match against Canada at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Monday, 10 February, with the game set to start at 15:30 SAST.