[1] Smith originally played for Harrold CC and Bedford School (where he captained England opening batsman Alastair Cook).
Primarily an opening batsman, at times Smith played slightly further down the order, especially during the Twenty20 cup.
Smith was an exciting fielder who took some great catches (Twenty 20 Cup Finals day vs Surrey) and fielded as 12th Man for the full England side whilst at Trent Bridge.
During the course of the 2008 season, Smith has established himself in the Durham championship side, primarily batting at No 3, and recorded his maiden 1st class double-hundred (201 not out) against Surrey, sending Durham to the top of the County Championship Division 1 as a result.
Smith was appointed as the new captain of Durham on 14 November 2008, succeeding Dale Benkenstein.