Steve Smith‘s ascent to the pinnacle of Test cricket has been nothing short of extraordinary. With a blend of unorthodox technique and unwavering focus, Smith has set new benchmarks for batting excellence. His ability to adapt to various conditions and opposition has solidified his reputation as one of the finest Test batter of all time. His incredible consistency and knack for performing under pressure further underline his status as a modern great. Smith’s impressive records and memorable innings are a testament to his unparalleled skill and determination in the longest format of the game.
Steve Smith’s best Test ton
Recently, cricket.com.au curated a list of Smith’s top 32 Test innings, ranked from best to worst. When presented with the final rankings, Smith expressed dissatisfaction with the list, describing it as ‘decent’. In the list Smith’s innings of 144 against England at Edgbaston in the 2019 Ashes series was at the top
Smith’s innings of 144 against England at Edgbaston during the 2019 Ashes series is widely considered his best Test knock. This innings came in a high-pressure environment, with Smith returning to international cricket after a year-long ban due to the ball-tampering scandal. Facing an hostile crowd and a challenging situation with Australia at 2/17, Smith’s calm and resolute batting was a beacon of stability.
Despite the early loss of wickets and his team’s precarious position at 8/122, Smith’s skill and composure shone through. He expertly handled the English bowlers and showcased his ability to build an innings under extreme pressure. His partnership with tailenders Peter Siddle and Nathan Lyon was crucial in lifting Australia to a competitive total of 284. This innings was not only a personal triumph for Smith but also played a significant role in Australia’s eventual victory by 251 runs.
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Smith’s adjustments to the top Test knocks list for Australia
The former Australian captain Smith made notable changes to the rankings. Among the revisions were his innings in Brisbane in 2017, which the 35-year-old felt deserved higher recognition and and his hard fought ton in Pune in 2017, which Smith believed was the innings with lot of luck.
1. 141 v England, Brisbane, 2017
Initially ranked just outside the top 10, this innings was elevated to a higher position at Smith’s insistence. In an interview with The Unplayable Podcast, Smith described this unbeaten knock, his 21st Test century, as a “top five” innings. Smith’s innings, characterized by a patient 326-ball effort, was pivotal in Australia’s dominant win by 10 wickets. His resilience and technical prowess were on full display, earning this innings a well-deserved spot among his best.
“I’d probably put 2017 Gabba Ashes Test in there uh i think i got 140 odd there. Team was in a bit of a trouble, first game of an Ashes series and i think it’s an important one to play the first game well and win. You know I was captaining as well so i wanted to set the standard as well i suppose and yeah i think that score helped us post a pretty good total. I think we got just in front of England in the first innings and yeah that one for me would be in the Top 5,” Smith said.
2. 109 v India, Pune, 2017
Smith also pushed for an upgrade of his 109 against India in Pune, which was originally listed in a lower position. The innings took place on a challenging pitch that spun sharply, making batting conditions extremely difficult. Despite being dropped several times, Smith’s knock was crucial in Australia’s commanding victory by 333 runs. Smith himself downplayed the significance of the innings, attributing his performance to the numerous dropped catches and describing his innings as making “five good 20s.” Nonetheless, the innings was recognized for its importance in a challenging context.
“Pune was the funny one i think conditions wise it was very difficult but i actually didn’t play that well. I think i got dropped five times got five good 20s so i mean it was the important one but um actually didn’t play that well if that makes sense, ” Smith concluded.
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