Steve Smith continues to showcase his mastery in Test cricket, delivering yet another stellar performance in the fourth Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The Australian batting maestro completed his second consecutive century in the series during the first innings at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
Smith batted with remarkable composure, facing 167 balls and crafting an exquisite knock that included nine boundaries and two towering sixes. His latest hundred at the MCG further cements his legacy, marking his fifth Test century at this venue and his second against India here. The seasoned batter has now amassed over 1,100 Test runs at the MCG, underlining his dominance on this ground.
This century follows his brilliant performance in the third Test of the series at the Gabba in Brisbane, where he also scored a magnificent hundred. With this latest milestone, Smith’s career tally in Test cricket has risen to an impressive 34 centuries, placing him among the all-time greats in the format.
Smith’s return to form has been crucial for Australia in this series. Struggling in the opening slot during the first two Tests, he was restored to his preferred No. 4 position, which proved to be a turning point. After a lean patch, Smith regained his rhythm with a spectacular innings in Brisbane, ending his run drought in emphatic fashion.
The former Australian captain is now on the verge of crossing the 10,000-run mark in Test cricket, an achievement that would further solidify his status as one of the modern era’s finest. His record currently includes 34 centuries and 41 half-centuries.
On Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test, contributions from Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, and Marnus Labuschagne, who all scored fifties, laid a solid foundation for Australia. With the series tied 1-1 after three matches, Smith’s performance could prove decisive in tipping the balance in favor of the hosts.