Image: Steve Smith's surpassing Joe Root's previous record / © India Today
Termed as the “Modern Day Best Test Batsman of this Generation”, Steven Smith showcased his dominance yet again with a spectacular century in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the MCG. Scoring 140 off 197 balls, Smith notched his 34th Test century and 11th against India, surpassing Joe Root’s record of 10 centuries against the same opposition. This knock also marked his fifth century at the iconic MCG, where his highest score of 192 also came against India.
| Name of the Player | Most Test tons against India |
|---|---|
| Steve Smith | 11 |
| Joe Root | 10 |
| Ricky Ponting | 8 |
| Vivian Richards | 8 |
Smith’s stellar performance came during a crucial 150-run partnership with Pat Cummins, who contributed a vital 49 runs. The duo thwarted India’s plans for a comeback and propelled Australia to a formidable first-innings total of 474. Smith’s innings included nine boundaries and two sixes, underlining his precision and control.
In contrast, Indian bowlers struggled to clean up the tail, with Jasprit Bumrah being the standout performer, claiming 4-99. Despite the pitch showing promise for batting, India’s batters, struggling with poor form, face a daunting task to match Australia’s imposing score. At the end of Day 1, Australia was at 311/6, with Smith and Cummins ensuring the hosts posted a commanding total before the Indian response.