Smith signs for another T20 league franchise [Source: AFP]Steve Smith’s rise as a T20 batter warrants study. From being hailed as the best Test batter of his generation to becoming one of the most destructive T20 openers, Smith has come a long way in this format. Ousted from Australia’s T20 World Cup squad, the Australian legend has showcased his versatility in recent years.He was ignored by IPL franchises this season, and the right-handed batter made the teams regret it with a lifetime of performances in the BBL. As a result, PSL came calling, and the Multan Sultans acquired him for the 2026 campaign.Another T20 league acquires Steve Smith amid PSL 2026 onslaughtAmid the PSL 2026, another franchise league had its eyes set on Steve Smith, as the former Test captain was in red-hot demand.In the Pakistan Super League 2026, Smith has showcased his aggressive best and has complemented Sahibzada Farhan to perfection. Hence, the Major League Cricket franchise, Washington Freedom, bought the Aussie player for the upcoming MLC.T20 Tracker @t20tracker 🚨 MLC 2026 - Player Signing Alert Steve Smith 🇦🇺 set to return to Washington Freedom after missing last season. In his only MLC stint, he led the side to the title. 336 runs at 56/149, 2nd highest run-scorer & among ESPNcricinfo’s top 5 most impactful batters of the season. Apr 10, 2026, 2:54 PM The 36-year-old missed the last MLC season, but in his only stint with the franchise, the New South Wales Cricketer led the team to a historic MLC championship.Smith's MLC journey at a glanceEyebrows were raised when the Washington Freedom bought Smith for the MLC 2024 campaign. Moreover, he was also made the captain of the side, and many touted his franchise to finish at the bottom of the table.He was brilliant with his tactical nuances, and at the same time, delivered the goods with the bat. The right-handed player smashed 336 runs, at an average of 56 in nine innings. However, the best part was his strike-rate as the Australian legend struck at 148.67.The pitches in the USA helped Smith’s cause as the batter unleashed beast mode, and tormented the bowlers to help his team win the coveted championship.Also Read: Mohammad Amir Abuses Steve Smith In PSL 2026Smith's recent T20 exploits helps him earn MLC contractThere has been a 360-degree turnaround for Smith in the game’s shortest format. Over the last few years, the Australian player has reinvented his style of play, and it has helped him become one of the best T20 openers.The turnaround started in the 2024/25 BBL season, when he played just three matches in the tournament and smacked 173 runs, with a strike rate of 182. The onslaught continued in BBL 2025/26, as he played 6 matches and smashed 299 runs, with a strike rate of 167.This prompted the Multan Sultans to buy him for PSL 2026, and he became the most expensive player of the season. So far, he has played 5 games for the Sultans, and while he has not been at his best, Smith has certainly carved a name for himself.In five games, he has slammed 144 runs, with an average of 28, and a strike rate of 154.83. Alongside Sahibzada Farhan, he has given solid starts for the team, and as a result, the Multan Sultans sit at top of the table with 4 wins out of 5.Also Read: MS Dhoni, Dewald Brevis Cleared To Play IPL 2026
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