Steve Smith proves he’s back with moment of brilliance in the field

With one smooth movement Steve Smith showed the world that he’s lost none of his world-class talent during his year on the sidelines. WATCH THE FOOTAGE INSIDE

Australia's Steve Smith (L) and Australia's Adam Zampa celebrate the wicket of Afghanistan's Rahmat Shah for 43 during the 2019 Cricket World Cup group stage match between Afghanistan and Australia at Bristol County Ground in Bristol, southwest England, on June 1, 2019. (Photo by Dibyangshu SARKAR / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE

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A diving Steve Smith stopped the ball with his outstretched left hand, bounced to his feet and quickly threw with his right arm.

In one swift action the former captain ran out Afghan Mohammad Nabi and ruled out any lingering concerns over his sore right elbow.

WATCH THE FOOTAGE IN THE PLAYER AT THE TOP OF THE PAGE

Australia's Steve Smith throws the ball to run out Afghanistan's Mohammad Nabi. Picture: AFP

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While Smith still bats with his surgically-repaired elbow heavily strapped, he is clearly back to world-class fielder status.

“Smith’s catching ability and ability to read the play in the field is incredible,” coach Justin Langer said last week.

“From the ring, yeah (Smith and David Warner can run players out).

“Not from the outfield, but that’s OK — that’s not their role in the team at the moment.

“Their role in the team will be to provide energy in the ring.

“If you’ve got an inner ring of Smith, (Glenn) Maxwell and Warner — my God, it’s like walking into an electric chamber.”

Smith then scored 18 before being dismissed. Picture: AFP

Nabi was electrocuted by Smith while No.3 Rahmat Shah was caught by Smith with a tumbling effort at cover.

There was a one-handed diving catch in Brisbane last month and the revelation Smith spent hours at local parks in Sydney altering his diving techniques to protect his elbow.

Smith said last week he was back throwing at 80 per cent.

The power bar might be slightly drained, but West Indies batsmen will know not to take on Smith’s arm on Thursday night.

Originally published as Steve Smith proves he’s back with moment of brilliance in the field