Steve Smith Breaks Records Of Sachin Tendulkar And Joe Root At MCG

The Boxing Day Test is no ordinary match; it’s an iconic event, a stage where legends are born. And at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Australian batter Steve Smith once again proved why he is a cricketer of a different class. His record-breaking century against India, scoring 140 in 197 balls, is a testament to his unparalleled skill, tenacity, and love for the grand stage.

Steve Smith’s Journey Back to Form

Before this series, Smith was under fire for a lean run of form. Century-less for over a year, critics questioned his prowess. The pressure was immense, and questions about his place in the Australian lineup began to arise. Smith silenced his critics during the third Test in Brisbane, scoring a gritty century. While it wasn’t the smoothest knock, it marked the end of his drought and set the tone for his resurgence. Building on that knock, Smith carried his newfound rhythm into the Boxing Day Test, producing one of the most impactful innings of his career.

The Boxing Day Test Saga

The MCG holds a special place in Smith’s heart. It’s where he has repeatedly shone, and this Test added another chapter to his illustrious history at the ground. Smith’s innings wasn’t just about the runs; it was a masterclass in timing, footwork, and precision. He dispatched 13 fours and three sixes, keeping the scoreboard ticking effortlessly.

Australia was teetering at 299 for 6 when Smith joined forces with skipper Pat Cummins. Their 112-run partnership not only steadied the innings but propelled Australia to a commanding first-innings total of 474.

Setting Records Ablaze

Smith has 11 centuries in 43 innings against India, outdoing England’s Joe Root, who has 10 tons against India in 55 innings. In 23 Tests against India, he has made 2,305 runs at an average of 2,305 runs at an average of 64.02, with 11 centuries and five fifties. His best score is 192.

Smith surpassed Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar by scoring his 10th century in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, surpassing Tendulkar’s nine centuries in the series. Across all formats, Smith has now accumulated 16 centuries against India, making him the top scorer against the team among active players.

Smith has risen to joint-sixth highest among century makers in Tests alongside Younis Khan (Pakistan), Sunil Gavaskar (India), Brian Lara (West Indies) and Mahela Jayawardena (Sri Lanka).

Australia’s challenging Position

Steve Smith scored a century and had a 112-run stand with skipper Pat Cummins (49 in 63 balls, with seven fours) which helped Australia end the first session at 454/7.The innings came when Australia needed it most, rescuing the team from potential collapse. Smith’s ability to perform under pressure underscores why he’s considered one of the best Test batters of his generation.

---