Washington, you asked for it. AND YOU GOT IT!

We are pleased to announce that Steve Smith is not only back in Washington Freedom colors, but also as our skipper. Champion mentality? Check. Leader? Check. A cricket icon? Check. A fan favorite? Check. Clearly, it didn’t take us long to choose a person who embodies what Washington Freedom is all about.

Smudge’s arrival immediately evokes memories of 2024: Nine innings, 336 runs, three half-centuries, an average of 56 and THAT special innings of 88 in the Final against San Francisco Unicorns. And just as he scripted moments of brilliance in his distinguished international career, Smith painted a lifetime of a memory in the minds of the Freedom fan base. And now, he returns to do it again, bigger than ever!

Over 17,000 runs in a distinguished international career, Steve Smith not only represents what it means to play at the highest level but he also knows what it takes to win. He has led Australia across all three formats. He has been there when the pressure hits a peak, and continuously delivered when there seems to be no way out.

That is the kind of captain the Washington Freedom is welcoming back to town.

The target is set: Mission MLC 2026.

The Freedom Express is ready to take off, and at the helm, we have a captain in Steve Smith who is ready to inspire, deliver and lift the Washington Freedom to greater heights this season.