January 30, 2013 at 5:54 p.m.
Captain Clay transfers to Cleveland
Smith, who also revealed that he would not be playing Cup Match this year, said he wanted to move to a club where he thought he could make a difference.
“It’s not about seeking glory,” said Smith, who admits he would have more chance of silverware with St David’s.
“I’ve won all the trophies there are to win and I want to give something back to the game. This is a team that has a mixture of experience and youth and it is somewhere I feel I can make a difference.
“It’s about giving back to the game of cricket. It’s been good to me all my life and hopefully I can pass on the knowledge that I have accumulated to a team that wants to learn.”
Cleveland were relegated from the Premier Division last year and have been a yo-yo team for a number of years.
But Smith is confident he can establish them in the top flight.
“My hope is to go there and see them improve. I want to get them back up to the top division and help make them a permanent fixture there.”
He added that he had been thinking of leaving St David's for a new challenge after six years at the east end club.
“As an individual I'm always looking for new ways to challenge myself and keep myself motivated.
“I felt I'd taken St David's as far as I could and so I accepted the offer from Cleveland.”
Smith admitted his chances of playing would be limited by his knee injury, which is expected to keep him out of serious action till mid-summer. After rushing back from previous injuries he is taking no chances this time.
“I'm looking at June to start playing a bit, to get myself in good nick for the national team.”
He added that he would not be playing in Cup Match but would save himself for the national team trip to Canada, which follows the summer classic.
“I definitely won’t play Cup Match this year. That's a decision I have personally made because of my situation.
“I want to give everything I can for my country. I don’t think it’s in my best interests to play Cup Match a couple of days before a national tour.”[[In-content Ad]]
Comments:
You must login to comment.