IPL 2023 creates history! 'FAB 4' Kohli, Root, Williamson & Smith together for the first time

The 16th edition of the men's Indian Premier League will unravel from the 31st of March with 10 competent teams taking guard for the prized trophy. Just as in the previous seasons, IPL 2023, too, promises a great blend of experience and youth with each player, regardless of age and stature, having something to play for. 

For the old-timers, the new iteration brings forth another opportunity to stamp their authority whereas the newbies would hope to make the best use of this mega platform.

And to make things all the more exciting, fans would love to know that IPL 2023 becomes the maiden occasion in the tournament's history to feature all the Fab Four batsmen of the world. The coveted club of the Fab Four includes India's own Virat Kohli, Joe Root, Kane Williamson and Steve Smith and interestingly, the four bona fide legends have never been part of the same IPL season so far. However, there's an interesting catch that must know of.

While Kohli, Williamson and Root participate in IPL 2023 as players, Aussie batter Steve Smith is set to join the broadcast team as a commentator and complete the circle. Smith took to social media recently to announce that "joining an exceptional and passionate team in India" as part of IPL 2023 but the cryptic message was decoded when the broadcaster confirmed that, indeed, he will be part of the commentary team.

Steve Smith, along with countryman Marnus Labuschagne, did not register himself for the mini-auction event that was held in December 2022. Both Australian stalwarts went unsold in the mega auction held ahead of the IPL 2022 edition.

In the past, Smith has played for Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and defunct franchises Kochi Tuskers Kerala, Pune Warriors India and Rising Pune Supergiants.