Australian cricketer Steve Smith has become the fourth Australian to surpass 10,000 runs in Test cricket, joining the ranks of Ricky Ponting, Allan Border, and Steve Waugh. He achieved this milestone during the first day of Australia’s opening match against Sri Lanka in Galle.
Key Details
- Milestone Achievement: Smith reached the 10,000-run mark on the first morning of the Test match in Galle, Sri Lanka.
- Career Statistics: Over his Test career, Smith has maintained an impressive batting average, underscoring his consistency and skill at the crease.
- Historical Context: Smith is the 15th player in the history of Test cricket to achieve this milestone, highlighting his place among the game’s elite.
Smith’s journey to this landmark has been marked by exceptional performances, including numerous centuries and match-winning innings. His unique batting style and relentless focus have made him a standout performer in international cricket.
Steve Smith, born on June 2, 1989, in Sydney, Australia, is widely regarded as one of the premier batsmen in modern cricket. His Test career has been marked by exceptional consistency and adaptability across various playing conditions.
Career Overview
- Debut: Smith made his Test debut for Australia against the West Indies on July 13, 2010.
- Batting Style: Right-handed batsman known for his unorthodox technique and remarkable hand-eye coordination.
- Role: Primarily a top-order batsman, Smith has also contributed as a part-time leg-spinner earlier in his career.
Career Statistics:
- Matches Played: As of January 2025, Smith has played 114 Test matches.
- Innings: 204 innings.
- Runs Scored: 9,999 runs.
- Batting Average: 55.86.
- Centuries: 34 centuries.
- Half-Centuries: 41 half-centuries.
- Highest Score: 239 runs.
- Balls Faced: 18,671.
- Strike Rate: 53.55.
- 4s: 1,094.
- 6s: 58.
- Not Outs: 25.
- Ducks: 11.
- First Innings Average: 83.63, with 24 centuries.
Notable Achievements
- First Innings Prowess: Smith has an exceptional record in first innings, averaging 83.63 with 24 centuries, the most by any batter.
- Captaincy: He served as Australia’s captain, leading the team to significant victories, including the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup.
- Awards: Smith has been named the ICC Test Player of the Year multiple times, reflecting his dominance in the format.
Playing Style
Smith’s batting is characterized by his unorthodox technique, marked by a high backlift and a pronounced shuffle across the crease. This unique style has been highly effective, allowing him to accumulate runs consistently across all formats.
Recent Performance
In recent years, Smith has continued to be a cornerstone of Australia’s batting lineup, contributing significantly in both home and away series. His adaptability to various playing conditions and ability to perform under pressure have solidified his reputation as one of the game’s greats.