Will Steven Smith be Royals' trump card?

JAIPUR: For Australian all-rounder Steven Smith, it's all in the mind. Having helped Rajasthan Royals clinch a thriller against Kolkata Knight Riders on Tuesday, the youngster has proven that T20 cricket is truly a thinking man's game. Keeping his cool, the 24-year old ensured that the Royals win the battle of nerves and finish the UAE-leg on a happy note.

Incredible it may sound, but for those who know Smith, this isn't anything new. Ask Australia's bowling coach Craig McDermott, and he agrees that the young gun has improved a lot in the last couple of years.

"Steven has done well in the T20 format, and has certainly improved in the longer version of the game as well. But I think he should focus a little more on his leg-spin. In Indian conditions, that could come in handy for Royals," McDermott told TOI.

McDermott, who played a pivotal role in Australia's success in The Ashes, also believes that it's his approach towards the game that's helping Smith grow. "In the last few years, Steven has bettered his all-round skills. He is a very good fielder, and can deliver at any point of time. Hard work is finally paying off."

As the league returns to India, McDermott feels the Australian cricketers would continue their good run in the second-leg too. "With Maxwell very well suited in the T20 format and Smith in good quite form, things should be quite similar. In India, the wicket conditions will be like that of UAE, so they would be hoping to keep the momentum going."

While, McDermott feels it's the change in approach that has helped Smith improve his game, former India cricketer Deep Dasgupta says it's his clarity that makes the all-rounder stand out. Having seen him from close quarters during his stint with the Pune Warriors, Dasgupta feels Smith has a clear vision which is quite helpful. "Smith is pretty clear about what he wants and is extremely calm and composed even at the time of crisis," the former team manager of the now defunct franchise, said.

"When he joined the Pune outfit, he was another promising cricketer, but over the years he has proven his mettle. Being a brilliant learner of the game, Smith is always ready to analyse and that's helping him in the long run," Dasgupta pointed out.

The former cricketer, however, is of the opinion that playing under the guidance of Rahul Dravid and Shane Watson is helping the Aussie. "I know what he is capable of doing, and he will certainly be one of the biggest trump cards for Royals in India-leg," Dasgupta said.