Australia batsman Steve Smith insists he has no plans to retire

Veteran Australian cricketer Steve Smith, aged 35, has expressed no intention of retiring from the sport, having recently secured a long-term contract with the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League (BBL).

Smith has signed a three-year agreement with the Sixers, which allows him the opportunity to participate in up to four BBL matches during the home summer, specifically between the concluding Test against India and the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka.

Although he was not selected for Australia's Twenty20 World Cup squad for the tournament taking place in the United States and the Caribbean, Smith remains dedicated to competing in all formats of the game.

"I have no plans to step back; I am simply enjoying my time on the field. I feel quite relaxed and am eagerly anticipating this summer," he stated to reporters on Tuesday.

"I expect to play a few BBL matches this year, and from there, we will assess the situation. I seize every opportunity that comes my way."

After David Warner's retirement from Test cricket following the series against Pakistan during the previous home summer, Smith took on the role of opening batsman for Australia in the series against the West Indies and New Zealand.

He accumulated 171 runs across eight innings, averaging 28.25, which is significantly lower than his career average of 56.97.

Regarding his position in the upcoming five-Test series against India, commencing on November 22 at Perth Stadium, Smith indicated uncertainty about whether he would continue to open the batting. However, he noted that his teammates seem to prefer him batting at number four, a position he has occupied for much of his Test career.

"The discussions I’ve had suggest that we will head to England, where the team will focus on the T20s, and then I will be available for the one-dayers, after which we will make a decision," he remarked.

"These discussions are ongoing. I noticed Usman (Khawaja) mentioned he prefers me at number four, and I believe Marnus (Labuschagne) shares a similar view.

"I am content to bat in any position for the team. For me, it is merely a matter of filling a role."