T-Boon
Coach
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IMO Steve Smith has had a majorly different career to most top order batsmen in that he started more as a bowler or an all-rounder, so there was less pressure on his game as a batsman. I think that's a big reason he has such confidence in his own game. He's worked it out naturally, without that pressure, as he's moved higher up the order and batted more.
He was always a way better batsman in my opinion.
He was viewed as a potential replacement for Warnie when we were obsessed with that idea (see Cameron White). But he was never all that good at leg spin.
In his debut shield season aged 18 or 19 he average about 46 with the bat and scored a few centuries - while still working out his game.
But you are certainly right about his progression in the Australian team - spinner, then all rounder then out and out batsman.