Australia vs Sri Lanka: Steve Smith Matches Ricky Ponting Record for Most Catches in Tests
Steve Smith has equaled Ricky Ponting record of 196 catches in Test cricket after a sharp catch in the second Test against Sri Lanka. With 210 catches needed to surpass Rahul Dravid's record, Smith is closing in on the all-time leader. At 34, Smith continues to be a key figure for Australia, taking crucial catches off-spinners and fast bowlers alike.
In the ongoing series between Australia and Sri Lanka, Steve Smith has made history by equaling Ricky Ponting’s record for the most catches in Test cricket, with 196 catches. This remarkable achievement came during the second Test match in Galle, where Smith took a sharp catch off Kamindu Mendis’ cut shot.
196TH TEST CATCH STEVE SMITH. 😱
— All Cricket Records (@Cric_records45) February 6, 2025
Steve Smith is on the verge of creating another record. This batter is top-class, and he is also a Superman in fielding. He has taken 196 catches so far, and with one more catch, he will break Ponting's record.
Most Test catches for Australia by… pic.twitter.com/fKtqYvYEVs
With this catch, Smith joined Ponting at the top of Australia’s all-time Test catch list. Now, with only 15 catches separating him from Rahul Dravid’s world record of 210, Smith is poised to surpass the Indian legend in the near future, assuming his fitness holds up. Smith’s versatility as a fielder has been crucial for Australia, whether it’s off Nathan Lyon’s spin, Pat Cummins’ seamers, or Mitchell Starc’s fast deliveries.
| Name of the Player | Number of Catches Taken |
|---|---|
| Steve Smith | 196 |
| Ricky Ponting | 196 |
| Mark Waugh | 181 |
| Mark Taylor | 157 |
| Allan Border | 156 |
| Michael Clarke | 134 |
| Matthew Hayden | 131 |
| Shane Warne | 125 |
| Greg Chappell | 122 |
| Steve Waugh | 112 |
At 34, Smith still has many years ahead of him, and his form in the field continues to be vital for his team’s success. As for the match, Sri Lanka is struggling at 133/5 after 51 overs, with Dinesh Chandimal standing strong at 63*. Australia leads the series 1-0, and Sri Lanka will need a strong partnership to avoid another defeat.
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