The World Test Championship Final between India and Australia at The Oval witnessed a breathtaking performance by the legendary Steve Smith. Displaying his unmatched skills and impeccable technique, Smith marked his dominance in Test cricket with his 31st Test century.
Let’s take a look into the remarkable achievements of Steve Smith on the first day of the WTC Final, highlighting his records, accolades, and reactions from cricket legends : Steve Smith Shines in WTC Final
Smith’s Outstanding Performance Against India
- Smith continued his exceptional record against India, putting the Indian bowlers under immense pressure.
- With 8 centuries to his name, he averages a staggering 67 against the Men in Blue.
- His patient knock on Day 1 helped anchor the Australian innings.
Records Broken
- Smith now holds the record for the most Test centuries by an Australian in England, surpassing Sir Don Bradman.
- He ranks third on the list of most Test centuries for Australia, with 31 centuries to his credit.
- The leaderboard includes legendary names like Ricky Ponting, Steve Waugh, and Matthew Hayden.
Applause from Renowned Ex-India Players
- Sunil Gavaskar, an Indian cricket legend, commended Smith’s century as a “super hundred” and praised his consistency in the Test match cycle.
- Former India head coach Ravi Shastri acknowledged Smith’s phenomenal career, highlighting his 31st hundred, and emphasizing his prowess against India.
Partnership with Travis Head
- Smith’s partnership with Travis Head in the first innings of the WTC Final yielded a monumental 285-run stand for the fourth wicket.
- Head contributed 163 runs while Smith played a crucial knock of 106 runs during the partnership.
Smith’s Love Affair with England
- Smith’s remarkable performance at The Oval, where he scored his maiden Test century, highlights his affinity for batting in England.
- His records at The Oval are exceptional, and he considers it one of his favorite venues to play.
Records Broken En Route to 31 Test Centuries
- Smith’s century against India marked his ninth Test hundred against them, putting him on par with Joe Root for the most hundreds against India.
- He equaled Steve Waugh’s seven Test centuries in England, second only to Sir Donald Bradman’s record of 11.
- Smith is closing in on the 9000-run milestone in Test cricket, aiming to become the quickest player to achieve this feat.
Steve Smith Shines in WTC Final
Conclusion: Steve Smith’s performance on the first day of the WTC Final was a testament to his unparalleled skills and his mastery of the game. Breaking records, earning accolades from renowned cricket personalities, and showcasing his dominance in England, Smith proved yet again why he is considered one of the greatest Test batsmen of all time. Cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the continuation of this enthralling clash between India and Australia, with Smith’s presence promising more extraordinary moments in the days to come.
Read more : Australia Dominates Day 1 of WTC Final: Head’s Century and Smith’s Solid Batting Propel Aussies to 327/3
