South Australia batsman James Smith is keen to stake his claim in the Redbacks side after a gallant knock against Victoria in the twilight Bupa Sheffield Shield clash at Adelaide Oval on Friday.
Making his first appearance for the Redbacks this summer, Smith didn't miss a beat as he fought valiantly against an experienced Bushrangers' bowling attack to finish with 76.
The 23-year-old's innings was even more impressive given all but one of his four partners - Tom Cooper – failed to offer support at the crease as they collapsed around him, heaping further pressure on the Murray Bridge native who had not featured for the Redbacks since March 2011 in the Shield fixture with Tasmania.
Looking comfortable at the crease on the back of 455 runs at an astonishing average of 75.83 for West Torrens in SA Grade Cricket, Smith said he was ready to step up and become a key batsman for the Redbacks.
"I've spent quite a bit of time away from under the red cap but it is good to be back ... I feel good and I reckon this year I'm hitting them better than I ever had," Smith said.
"I had a good half-a-season at club level and I'm just trying to bring some momentum out here with the Redbacks."
"I'd really like to cement a spot and have an extended career with the Redbacks starting now."
"There's another three Shield games and I'd love to play in the one-day format as well where with we've got a good chance to get some silverware."
With the Redbacks on the verge of another Shield wooden spoon Redbacks coach Darren Berry admitted earlier in the week that he is looking to blend in his youth at the highest level.
Smith said while it was promising to see himself and a number of other young talent in the likes of Tom Stray, Travis Head and Cameron Williams get their chance to impress, it was crucial the Redbacks tried to salvage what's left of their Shield season.
"We still want to get as many points as we can and win games ... we know we can, we have the skill there," Smith said.
"It's good to see a couple of the young fellas putting their foot in the door and having a crack but we just want to win games still, that's why we play."