Jason Smith believes his adaptability is his biggest asset as he prepares for his first T20 World Cup.

The big-hitting MI Cape Town batsman was one of the surprise selections for the Proteas’ 15-man squad for next month’s tournament in India and Sri Lanka, with his inclusion debated in light of the omissions of the likes of Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs and Matthew Breetzke.

Slotted in as a middle-order finisher, the 31-year-old is set to play a role similar to that often associated with Stubbs.

Smith, who has just two T20I caps for the Proteas, says adaptability has always been central to his game.

“I feel like I’m quite a versatile player. I can bat anywhere in the top, well, anywhere from three to seven. It’s just important to be flexible and adapt to any condition or situation that I’m faced with.”

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Smith is adamant that his mindset won’t shift on the biggest stage.

“It’s going to be my first senior World Cup, but I’d like to think my process will stay the same. I’m in a space where I’d like to enjoy my cricket and not necessarily worry about the outcomes too much.

“It’s about just soaking it in and enjoying every moment that I’m there.”

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Smith’s call-up follows a standout T20 Challenge campaign for the KZN Dolphins, where he averaged 74.50 at a strike rate close to 200, including a blistering 19-ball 68* against the Northerns Titans.

Smith hit 41 off 14 balls in MI Cape Town’s SA20 opener against Durban’s Super Giants on Boxing Day, but has scored one, four, 22, two and 13 in his last five games.

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