Steve Smith, Australia's batting dynamo, has etched his name into the annals of cricket history by reaching the prestigious milestone of 10,000 Test runs. This remarkable achievement came on the first day of the first Test match against Sri Lanka in Galle on Wednesday (Jan 29, 2025), making him the fourth Australian to join this elite club after Allan Border, Steve Waugh, and Ricky Ponting.
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| Image Credits: ESPN Cricinfo |
Smith's journey to this milestone has been nothing short of extraordinary. Initially known for his leg-spin bowling, he transformed into one of the finest Test batsmen of his era, often drawing comparisons to the legendary Sir Donald Bradman for his sheer consistency and technical prowess. His career, marked by a significant dip during the 2018 ball-tampering scandal, saw a phenomenal resurgence, showcasing his resilience and dedication to the sport.
The 35-year-old achieved this feat in his 205th innings, a testament to his longevity and consistency at the crease. His average, hovering around 55.9 before this Test, underlines his dominance in the format. Smith's path to 10,000 runs included memorable knocks against formidable opponents, with several centuries that have not only won matches but also hearts.
This milestone is not just a personal triumph for Smith but a moment of national pride for Australia, reinforcing his legacy as one of the greatest Test cricketers. His technique, characterized by a unique stance and an ability to manipulate the field, has been both a spectacle and a lesson in cricketing excellence. As Australia looks to future challenges, Steve Smith's 10,000 runs will continue to inspire and set the benchmark for aspiring cricketers everywhere.
