Win Projections to be updated soon
In a pivotal moment of the World Test Championship Final against India, premier Australian batter Steve Smith showcased his brilliance by notching up his 31st Test century on Day 2 at the Oval. Starting the day on an unbeaten 95*, Smith wasted no time as he took just two balls to reach the coveted triple-figure mark, smashing Mohammed Siraj for consecutive boundaries.
Smith brings up 2000 runs against India
Throughout his innings, the talismanic batsman demonstrated his class, reaching another milestone by surpassing 2,000 Test runs against the Indian team. This remarkable achievement places him among an elite group, making him only the third Australian and eighth player overall to accomplish this feat.
Steve Smith‘s century brought with it a plethora of records. Surpassing Matthew Hayden, he now sits in second place on the list of most Test hundreds for Australia, trailing only the legendary Ricky Ponting and Steve Waugh, who have amassed 41 and 32 centuries, respectively, in their illustrious careers.
Additionally, Smith reached the milestone of 2,000 runs against India, joining the exclusive company of Ricky Ponting (2,555) and Michael Clarke (2,049) as the only other Australians to achieve this feat. In just 19 Tests against India, Smith has amassed an impressive 2,008 runs at an average of 66.93.
Notably, this was Smith’s ninth Test century against the Indian team, putting him on par with former England skipper Joe Root for the most tons against India. Furthermore, England remains the only team against which Smith has scored more Test centuries, with a remarkable tally of 11.
Stabilizing Australia’s batting
Smith entered the crease after Australia lost both their openers in the opening session, with the team struggling at 71/2. Teaming up with Travis Head, who had already scored a century on the previous day, Smith played a composed role while his partner took on the aggressor’s role. He meticulously wore down the Indian bowlers, biding his time and frustrating the opposition throughout the day.
In a masterful display of control and shot selection, Smith went on to amass a well-deserved 121 runs from 268 balls, including 19 exquisite boundaries. Notably, he achieved his 31st Test century without taking any unnecessary risks, ensuring his team remained in a strong position in this high-stakes encounter.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
