Galle: Australia’s Steve Smith has etched his name among cricketing legends by surpassing 10000 Test runs. The 35-year-old achieved this milestone on the first morning of the opening Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.
Smith Reaches Historic Landmark
Smith started the match at 9,999 Test runs. On his very first ball, he nudged a delivery from Prabath Jayasuriya for a single, becoming the 15th cricketer and only the fourth Australian to reach the prestigious milestone. He raised his bat to acknowledge the applause from the spectators, marking another remarkable achievement in his illustrious career.
Joining Australia’s Cricketing Legends
With this feat, Smith joins Australian greats Ricky Ponting, Allan Border, and Steve Waugh in the 10,000-run club. This elite list is topped by India’s Sachin Tendulkar, who holds the record for the most Test runs at 15,921.
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar was the first-ever cricketer to reach 10,000 Test runs, achieving the landmark in 1987 against Pakistan in Ahmedabad. Since then, only a select few have managed to break the barrier, solidifying their places as some of the game’s finest batsmen.
Smith’s Journey to the Top
Smith has been a pillar of consistency in Australian cricket. He currently boasts an average of over 55 in Test matches, a testament to his dominance in the longest format. Before this match, he had scored 34 Test centuries in 114 games since making his debut in 2010.
Interestingly, Smith started his career as a leg-spinner who batted at number eight. However, his exceptional batting skills quickly took center stage, and he soon established himself as one of the best Test batters of his generation. His technique, patience, and ability to score in all conditions have made him a modern-day great.
Standing in as Captain
Smith is leading Australia in this two-match series in the absence of Pat Cummins, who opted out due to the birth of his second child. Smith’s leadership experience, combined with his remarkable batting, makes him a crucial figure for the Australian team.
Part of the ‘Fab Four’
Smith is often regarded as one of the best batters of the modern era. He is part of the famous ‘Fab Four’ alongside India’s Virat Kohli, New Zealand’s Kane Williamson, and England’s Joe Root. These four players have dominated Test cricket over the past decade, consistently delivering match-winning performances for their respective teams.
Conclusion
Steve Smith’s journey from a young leg-spinner to a batting maestro is an inspiring story. His entry into the 10000- runs club cements his legacy as one of Australia’s greatest Test cricketers. With more cricket left in him, fans can expect Smith to continue adding to his tally and rewriting records in the years to come.
