Australian batting maestro Steve Smith has ended his century drought with a stunning knock during the IND vs AUS 3rd Test at the Gabba, Brisbane. Facing a testing phase in his career, Smith’s innings came at a crucial moment for Australia, showing how big batters make a comeback in the den.
Smith’s long-awaited century
Coming to bat at the fourth position, Smith played a patient and composed knock, reaching his century after facing over 170 deliveries. He was supported initially by Marnus Labuschagne and later by Travis Head, who also smashed a century, Smith anchored the innings by playing less risky shots. This century is Smith’s first in 2024 and marks the end of an 18-month gap since his last Test hundred. His previous ton was against England at Lord’s on 28 June 2023 during the Ashes, making this latest achievement even better for the 34-year-old.
A record-breaking feat
Smith’s century at the Gabba is his 10th against India in Tests, making the Men in Blue his second-favourite opposition after England, against whom he has 12 centuries. This shows how he is one of the best Test batters in modern cricket.
Interestingly, Brisbane seems to bring out the best in Smith. Earlier this year, he played an unbeaten knock of 91 against the West Indies at the same venue, which had been his highest score in 2024 until this century. The Gabba pitch appears to be his happy hunting ground, as both his half-centuries this year have come at this iconic venue.
IND vs AUS: The bigger picture
Smith’s ton and double hundred partnership with Travis Head has put Australia in a strong position against India in the Brisbane Test now. With this knock, the IND vs AUS rivalry continues to deliver some interesting cricket, and Smith has once again proven why he remains a cornerstone of Australian cricket.
Steve Smith centuries against countries
| Opponent | Matches | Innings | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangladesh | 2 | 4 | 0 |
| England | 37 | 66 | 12 |
| India | 23 | 42 | 10 |
| New Zealand | 10 | 18 | 2 |
| Pakistan | 15 | 25 | 2 |
| South Africa | 12 | 21 | 2 |
| Sri Lanka | 5 | 9 | 2 |
| West Indies | 9 | 15 | 3 |
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