Australia's key batsman Steve Smith has been signed by Welsh Fire as their first direct acquisition for The Hundred 2025. The right-handed batter was acquired on deadline day as sides start making a final push with roster formation on the eve of The Hundred Draft on March 12.

Australian legend Steve Smith is Welsh Fire's first direct signing to The Hundred, being signed on Deadline Day as men's and women's teams set about forming the squads.

Smith is reunited with Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Tom Abell and Jonny Bairstow in Mike Hussey's men's side, with the women's side securing the return of foreign trio Hayley Matthews, Jess Jonassen and Shabnim Ismail and captain Tammy Beaumont.

The Hundred saw 12 direct signings finalized on Deadline Day, with the eight teams completing their commitments and putting their staff together before The Hundred Draft on 12th March.

The 35-year-old was originally due to play in the first-ever The Hundred in 2020, but the delay of the tournament because of the Covid-19 pandemic meant he was unable to play. Five years on, he can now finally shine in the rapid-fire 100-ball format.

"I'm very excited to play with Welsh Fire come later in the summer. I was supposed to be playing with The Hundred from the beginning of the tournament, so it is great to make it over to Wales at last with the lads," was quoted the past Australian captain.

Welsh Fire skipper Tammy Beaumont said, "It's great to come back to Welsh Fire.". We've established a solid player base over the past few years, and it's great to have so many familiar faces returning as we look to continue this together for another season. I'm really looking forward to getting back to Sophia Gardens and playing in front of our incredible Cardiff fans. We're determined to win the competition this season after falling short at Lord's in 2024."