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In a significant milestone for Australian cricket, Steve Smith has joined the elite group of batters who have scored over 10,000 runs in Test cricket. This achievement was made on Wednesday (January 29, 2025) during the first Test match against Sri Lanka in Galle, where Smith’s performance helped solidify his place among the legends of the game.
Steve Smith’s journey to 10,000 Test runs
Smith reached this remarkable milestone after a long wait, having previously been stranded on 9,999 runs. His ascent to the 10,000-run club is a testament to his exceptional talent and determination. At the age of 35, Smith has been a pivotal figure in Australian cricket, known for his unorthodox batting style and mental resilience.
The 35-year-old has scored his runs at an average of over 55, with Kumar Sangakkara being the only batter with more than 10,000 Test runs to boast a higher average (57.40). He also became the fifth-fastest player by innings to reach the 10,000-run milestone, achieving the feat in 205 innings. In comparison, Brian Lara, Sachin Tendulkar and Sangakkara reached the mark in 195 innings.
The elite Australian quartet
With Smith’s accomplishment, he joins three other distinguished Australian cricketers who have also crossed the 10,000-run threshold:
Ricky Ponting: The former captain holds the record for the most runs scored by an Australian in Test cricket with 13,378 runs, along with 41 centuries to his name. Ponting was instrumental in Australia’s dominance in the early 2000s.
Steve Waugh: Another legendary figure, Waugh scored 10,927 runs during his illustrious career. He is celebrated not only for his batting prowess but also for his leadership during one of Australia’s most successful eras.
Allan Border: The first Australian to reach the 10,000-run mark, Border amassed 11,174 runs and played a crucial role in transforming Australia into a cricketing powerhouse.
Significance of the milestone
Reaching 10,000 runs is a prestigious achievement in Test cricket, highlighting a player’s skill and longevity in the sport. Overall, 15 players globally have reached this landmark, so Smith’s entry into this exclusive club solidifies his legacy as one of the game’s greats.
