Sydney, Jan 6 (.) Steve Smith once again proved why he is one of Australia’s most formidable batsmen, guiding his side to 518 for 7 in their first innings and a 134-run lead over England on Day 3 of the fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).
Smith’s sublime form was the cornerstone of Australia’s innings, with his 37th Test century anchoring a dominant performance that kept the hosts in firm control.
After England posted 384 in their first innings, Australia needed a solid start, and Smith delivered with his trademark composure and precision.
From the outset, he looked in complete command, dispatching short balls with authority and driving deliveries through the covers with immaculate timing. His unbeaten 129-run knock came courtesy of a measured blend of patience and aggression, including deft cuts and powerful pulls that showcased his mastery of the SCG pitch.
As he reached the milestone, Smith raised his bat to a roaring SCG fans, kissed the badge on his helmet, and acknowledged his family in the stands, a testament to his deep connection with the home ground.
Smith’s innings was complemented by Travis Head, who scored a fluent century of his own, and Cameron Green, whose quick 37 provided momentum in the middle order.
Yet it was Smith who set the tone, rotating the strike, punishing loose deliveries, and constructing a resilient platform for Australia’s total. His ability to handle both pace and spin with equal finesse frustrated the English bowlers, who struggled to find a consistent plan against the home captain.
England did manage occasional breakthroughs through Brydon Carse, Matthew Potts, and Jacob Bethell, who took key wickets, including that of Head, but Smith’s presence at the crease ensured Australia never lost momentum. He repeatedly drove the ball past fielders, cut deliveries with precision, and pulled confidently against short-pitched bowling, demonstrating why he remains a master of Test batting in Australian conditions.
England, trailing by 134 runs, will be under immense pressure when play resumes on Day 4, as they attempt to dislodge Smith, whose form continues to be a major threat. Australia, buoyed by their captain’s heroics, remain in a commanding position, and Smith’s performance has once again underscored his status as the linchpin of the team in the 2025-26 Ashes.
England will have to devise a strategy to dislodge the captain, whose dominance, supported by contributions from Usman Khawaja (17), Beau Webster (42*), and Alex Carey (16), has once again proven decisive in home conditions.
As cricket fans look on, the SCG fans continue to celebrate Smith’s masterclass, a reminder of the captain’s ability to dominate in home conditions and steer Australia towards potential Ashes glory.
. . PRS