Steve Smith, a key player for Australia, took a three-month break from cricket after his ODI career ended with elimination from the Champions Trophy in March 2025.

During this downtime in New York, he focused on fitness with a personal trainer and refrained from batting, opting to play golf to enhance his overall fitness.

Smith reported feeling stronger than he has since 2014, attributing this to improvements in his physical condition and flexibility, which he believes will enhance his performance.

Known for his meticulous training, Smith adopted a minimalist approach in preparation for the World Test Championship finals, emphasizing quality over quantity in practice.

Expressing confidence in his readiness, Smith stated after his first practice session, 'can we play tomorrow? I'm ready to go.'

In the upcoming WTC final against South Africa, Smith is expected to bat at No.4, despite the potential return of Cameron Green, who has been sidelined for over a year due to a serious back injury.

Previously, Smith opened for four Tests following David Warner's retirement, but he is returning to his preferred No.4 position due to Green's injury.

Selectors are considering various batting orders, including the possibility of Marnus Labuschagne opening with Usman Khawaja and Green batting at No.3.

As the WTC 2023-25 standings show, South Africa leads with eight wins out of 12 Tests, while Australia is in second place with 13 wins and four losses from 19 Tests.

Smith is determined to perform well in the ICC World Test Championship final against South Africa on June 11, 2025.

Having scored a century in the 2023 WTC final against India, Smith has expressed his fondness for Lord's, appreciating its history and unique playing conditions.

He noted the challenges posed by Lord’s slope, which affects how players adjust to the playing conditions.