Australian batting maestro Steve Smith has further cemented his legacy in Test cricket by notching up his 33rd Test century during the IND vs AUS 3rd Test at the Gabba, Brisbane. With this ton, Smith overtakes Kane Williamson and now sits second in the list of most Test hundreds among the celebrated ‘Fab 4’ batters, trailing only Joe Root.
Fab 4: The battle for Test centuries
The ‘Fab 4’—a group comprising Steve Smith, Joe Root, Virat Kohli, and Kane Williamson—have dominated world cricket for over a decade with their incredible batting feats. Smith’s latest milestone has sparked renewed debate about who is the greatest in the quartet when it comes to the purest format of the game.
Here is the updated list of most Test centuries among the Fab 4:
| Player | Centuries | Matches |
|---|---|---|
| Joe Root | 36 | 152 |
| Steve Smith | 33* | 112 |
| Kane Williamson | 32 | 105 |
| Virat Kohli | 30 | 120 |
Smith’s achievement is remarkable not just for the numbers but also for his unmatched consistency. While Joe Root remains at the top, Smith’s superior century-per-match ratio highlights his dominance over the years.
Smith’s path to the record
Smith’s ton at the Gabba was a patient and composed innings, where he faced testing bowling conditions but persevered to reach his 33rd Test hundred. His ability to thrive under pressure has been a hallmark of his career, and this knock serves as a reminder of his importance to Australian cricket.
What sets Smith apart is his ability to score big against the toughest oppositions in challenging conditions. His 10 centuries against India alone highlight his skill and temperament in high-pressure matches.
Comparing the Fab 4
While all four players have delivered countless memorable performances, Smith’s achievement in reaching 33 centuries in just 112 Tests makes him the fastest among the Fab 4 to reach the milestone. In comparison, Root has played 152 matches, Kohli 120, and Williamson 105.
Smith’s Test career average of 56.61 further underscores his dominance and consistency, making him arguably the most reliable batter in red-ball cricket.
Smith’s next challenge
With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy hanging in the balance, Smith’s resurgence comes at a crucial time for Australia. His century has not only put Australia in a commanding position but also reignited his form after a lean patch.
The race among the Fab 4 for Test centuries continues to captivate cricket fans worldwide. Smith’s 33rd ton is yet another chapter in his illustrious career, and with his hunger for runs, it seems only a matter of time before he challenges Joe Root’s tally at the top.