By SRTeam In a remarkable display of skill and consistency, Australian batsman Steve Smith has surpassed Virat Kohli’s record for the most Test centuries in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Smith’s latest century against Sri Lanka not only cements his position as one of the premier batsmen of his generation but also propels him to the top of the ICC Test batting rankings.
Smith’s Record-Breaking Century
On January 29, 2025, during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, Smith delivered an unbeaten 104-run performance, contributing to Australia’s commanding position at 330 for 2 before rain interrupted play. This century marks Smith’s 10th in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, surpassing the previous record held jointly by Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar, who each have nine centuries in the series.
Climbing the All-Time Test Centuries List
Smith’s latest century brings his total to 34 in Test cricket, placing him among the top echelons of the game’s greatest batsmen. This achievement not only highlights his exceptional talent but also underscores his consistency and resilience across various conditions and against formidable opponents.
Dominance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, contested between India and Australia, has witnessed some of Smith’s most memorable performances. With 2,130 runs in 22 matches at an average of 62.64, Smith has been a pivotal figure in Australia’s successes in the series. His ability to perform under pressure and deliver match-winning innings has been instrumental in shaping the narrative of this storied rivalry.
Surpassing Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli, renowned for his batting prowess, has been a formidable competitor in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, amassing 2,105 runs in 28 matches at an average of 46.77. Smith’s recent performances have not only eclipsed Kohli’s century tally in the series but also highlight the ongoing rivalry between these two modern-day cricketing giants.
A Glance at Smith’s Career Achievements
Beyond the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Smith’s career is adorned with numerous accolades and records:
- Test Runs: Over 9,000 runs at an average exceeding 56, making him one of the most prolific run-scorers in Test history.
- Fastest to Milestones: Smith holds the record for being the fastest batsman to reach 7,000 and 8,000 runs in Test cricket.
- ICC Rankings: He achieved the second-highest Test batting rating of 947, only behind the legendary Don Bradman’s 961.
- Awards: Smith is the only player to have won the ICC Test Player of the Year award more than once, underscoring his dominance in the longest format of the game.
Looking Ahead
As Smith continues to etch his name in cricketing history, his focus remains on contributing to Australia’s success on the international stage. With upcoming series and the ever-competitive cricketing calendar, fans and analysts alike will keenly watch how Smith’s career unfolds and how he further cements his legacy as one of the game’s all-time greats.
In conclusion, Steve Smith’s recent achievements not only highlight his individual brilliance but also add a compelling chapter to the annals of cricketing history. His rivalry with contemporaries like Virat Kohli enriches the sport, offering fans worldwide a spectacle of top-tier cricketing excellence.