Steven Smith yet again showcased the qualities that make him one of the finest batsmen in the Australian Test side by scoring an unbeaten 129 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
As his 37th Test century was reflected by the scoreboard, the true action was at work in the theatre that was Steve Smith’s batting performances. With mud smeared on their whites and a laid-back smile, Smith strode away with the pace he alone dictated all day.
A Century Without Effort against England
The arrival of Smith at the crease saw Australia in a formidable position, having reached 234 for 3 in their total. Taking on an injury-depleted English bowling lineup, he started playing second fiddle to Travis Head before taking absolute control effortlessly.
- Scored freely against all four England seamers
- Adjusted gears according to the match situation with ease
- Attacked on the second new ball
Spun the ball with ease, including a towering six off Jacob Bethell. It was one of his most controlled hundreds so calm, calculating, and cold-blooded.
Most Centuries in Ashes: Smith Joins Elite Company
Every passing century propels Smith further into the history books. It was his 13th Ashes century, second overall on the list for Most Centuries in Ashes history, just behind the legendary Sir Donald Bradman. Smith has been flourishing on the Ashes stage for the past 15 years and has now solidified himself as the best tormentor of England.
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A Series Where Smith Was Almost Unneeded
The domination exhibited by Australia in the series had ensured that Smith was playing under little pressure most of the time. Before his appearance at Sydney, he had scored some useful yet lowly contributions, some of which had seen him absent from a test match owing to health reasons. Finally, the SCG Test gave Smith the platform to deliver a defining innings, and he did it with aplomb.
The Mannerisms That Define Steven Smith
And Smith was eccentric to say the least, much to the mirth of the 46,000-strong SCG crowd:
- Bowlers being delayed because of distractions around the sightscreen
- Commentating on spectators via stump microphones
- Telling the fielder where to put his shades
- Dramatic leaves and exaggerated evasive movements
- Even signaling “wide” theatrically after a bouncer sailed over his head
- Far from distractions, Smith insists these quirks are signs he is batting in complete rhythm.
Smith on Batting “In the Zone”
After the game, Smith laughed off queries about his behavior, explaining in a way that it happens when he is comfortable. He credited Travis Head’s aggressive approach for allowing him time to settle, noting that bowlers often forget about him when Head is scoring at such a pace. Once set, Smith simply worked the bowlers, assessed conditions and then went onto take full advantage.
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The SCG: Smith’s Home Fortress
Smith lavished heavy praise on batting at the SCG, referring to it as his “home deck.” His deep understanding of the pitch, coupled with the wicket’s pace and bounce, makes it one of his favourite venues in world cricket. The reaction of the crowd added to the moment, with Smith acknowledging the Australian and English supporters with his signature style.
What does the future hold for Steven Smith?
At 36, questions around Smith’s future inevitably follow him. While an improbable home Ashes in 2029-30, Smith made clear he has no plans to step away soon.
He said, “Yeah, taking things ‘series by series,’ I’m enjoying it and going well and still contributing to the team, which is really important, especially in a transitional period for us after we’ve had some senior guys retire.”
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