Steve Smith, the Australian batting maestro, has been hailed as the second-greatest batsman ever produced by Australia, second only to the legendary Sir Don Bradman. In an interview with the Daily Mail, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting expressed his admiration for Smith’s outstanding achievements and contributions to the game.
As Smith gears up to play his 100th Test match during Australia’s upcoming clash with England in the third Ashes Test at Headingley in Leeds, Ponting spoke highly of his remarkable career. With 9,113 runs under his belt at an astonishing average of 59.56, Smith has solidified his status as a modern-day great in the world of cricket.
Smith’s accomplishments in the red-ball format are nothing short of extraordinary. With 32 centuries to his name, he has consistently proven his prowess in the longest format of the game. His first Test century in the 2013 Ashes series against England paved the way for many more monumental batting displays. Smith’s highest individual score in Test cricket came against the same opponent, when he amassed a mammoth 239 runs in the 2017-18 Ashes series.
Speaking about Smith’s achievements, Ponting could not contain his admiration, stating, If it all ended tomorrow he’d be the second-greatest batsman Australia have produced after Don Bradman. Statistically, you cannot argue with that. He’s achieving things so quickly. Even at Lord’s, he became the second-fastest in history to reach 9,000 Test runs.
Ponting further praised Smith’s incredible versatility and record-breaking performances, emphasizing that he has etched his name among the all-time greats of the sport. Quickest to 32 Test hundreds, innings-wise. It doesn’t look as though he’s slowing down, Ponting remarked.
With Australia currently leading the Ashes series 2-0, Smith’s presence in the team has been pivotal. If Australia manages to secure a victory in the third Test, they will retain the Ashes urn and secure a memorable series win on English soil.
Smith’s performances have undoubtedly left a significant impact on Australian cricket, not only in terms of his statistical achievements but also his ability to rally the team and make crucial contributions in pressure situations. The third Ashes Test, set to begin on Thursday, July 6, promises to be yet another opportunity for Smith to showcase his remarkable skills and cement his position as one of the finest batters the game has ever seen.
As fans eagerly await the upcoming clash, there is no doubt that all eyes will be on Steve Smith, the epitome of modern-day batting excellence.
