Aussie cricket star Steve Smith makes his IPL commentary debut as a HOLOGRAM in bizarre scenes
Aussie cricket star Steve Smith makes his IPL commentary debut as HOLOGRAM in bizarre scenes that fooled many cricket fans
- Steve Smith made IPL commentary debut
- Wasn’t in the studio, was actually a hologram
- The digital technology impressed many fans
Australian cricketer Steve Smith has turned heads following his commentary debut in the Indian Premier League.
In bizarre scenes, the 33-year-old appeared as a hologram on Star Sports on Friday for the tournament’s opener.
It followed the veteran who announced earlier this week that he was ‘joining an exceptional and passionate team’.
Since Smith was not signed to IPL franchises, many fans thought he would comment instead.
They proved on the money, with Smith ‘appearing’ in the studio alongside compatriots Tom Moody and Aaron Finch.
Australian cricketer Steve Smith has turned heads following his commentary debut in the Indian Premier League
In bizarre scenes, Smith (pictured left) ‘appeared’ at Star Sports’ studio in India – it was actually a hologram, while the batsman was left at home in Australia
Smith – who has stayed home in Sydney – was beamed virtually to the Star Sports studio in India.
It didn’t take long for the impressive digital technology to become a talking point on social media.
“He looks like he’s really there. Sci-fi stuff,” one said, while another spoke for many when he tweeted “star sports’ wonderful use of technology.”
The network confirmed Smith’s role in a statement Friday.
“Steve Smith has joined the marquee expert panel [IPL] tournament.
“He will make his broadcasting debut with Star Sports, adding his invaluable insights and expertise to Star Sports’ already impressive roster of panelists.”
On Tuesday, Smith told his legion of Twitter fans he had “exciting news.”
Smith impressed many Australian cricket fans with his leadership skills after coming on for Pat Cummins in the recent Test series against India
‘Namaste India, I have great news for you. I am participating in IPL 2023.
‘Yes that’s right, I’m joining an exceptional and passionate team in India.’
Smith has not played in the IPL for the last two years and went unsold in the 2023 auction.
Some thought a franchise could secure its services after some sparkling performances representing the Sydney Sixers at the Big Bash earlier this year.