Steve Smith hit his stride at the perfect time, silencing critics during a lean patch by scoring his 33rd Test century for Australia in Brisbane.
While Travis Head played with his usual aggressive flair, Smith took a steady approach, anchoring their 241-run partnership that energized Australia’s innings.
Smith showcased a classic Test cricket performance, displaying patience, balance, and flawless technique. His 101 runs from 190 balls highlighted his mastery of the format and signaled his return to peak form.
With this century, Smith surpassed Steve Waugh’s total of 32 Test centuries and is now second only to Ricky Ponting, who has 41. This innings marked Smith’s first Test century since the 2023 Ashes at Lord’s, ending a drought of 25 innings, the longest of his career without a three-figure score.
“It was nice to get in and feel good,” said Smith. “I’ve missed out for a while, so it’s great to reach three figures again.”
Smith, who has an exceptional record against India, now shares the most Test centuries against them (10) with Joe Root. However, Smith achieved this feat in just 41 innings, compared to Root’s 55.
His ton in Brisbane also broke his longest stretch without a century, previously 22 innings from debut to his maiden Test ton.
Together with Head’s explosive batting, Smith helped Australia build a commanding position. Their partnership ensured a solid total that could prove decisive in the match, reaffirming Smith’s value as one of cricket’s modern greats.
