Border Gavaskar Trophy | Cricket Outlook

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: How many centuries has Steve Smith hit in Test cricket?

Aditya Bhagchandani — Sun, 15 Dec 2024 05:57:33 +0000

Steven Smith, one of the greatest Test batters of his generation, has been a run-machine for Australia ever since he transitioned from a spin-bowling all-rounder to a top-order batting giant. Known for his unorthodox style, unmatched consistency, and hunger for runs, Smith has established himself as a cornerstone of Australian cricket. With 32 Test centuries, Smith is currently one of the leading century-makers in the format.

Breaking Down Smith’s Test Centuries

Total Test Tons: 32
Highest Score: 239 (against England, 2017-18 Ashes)
Hundreds in Australia: 15
Hundreds in Away Tests: 17
Against England: 11 centuries (his most against any team)

A Century Machine

Smith’s ability to adapt to various conditions has made him a standout performer. His incredible performances in Ashes series and consistent run-scoring in challenging overseas conditions have drawn comparisons to legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Jacques Kallis.

Comparing With Other Greats

Smith currently stands fourth among Australian players with the most Test centuries, trailing behind:
- Ricky Ponting: 41
- Steve Waugh: 32 (equal with Smith)
- Matthew Hayden: 30

Globally, Smith is edging closer to joining the elite club of batters with 40+ Test tons, a feat achieved by only a handful of cricketing legends.

The Road Ahead

Despite a recent dip in form, Smith remains confident in his abilities. His recent remarks before the Brisbane Test against India reflect his determination: “I am not out of form, just out of runs.” With challenging pitches and evolving bowling strategies, Smith is keen on fine-tuning his approach and continuing to contribute to Australia’s dominance in Test cricket.

WTC 2023-25 Points Table Updated after AUS vs IND 2nd Test: India drops to third spot, Australia moves to top after Adelaide Test

Aditya Bhagchandani — Sun, 08 Dec 2024 07:04:20 +0000

Australia’s convincing victory over India in the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test in Adelaide has seen the Pat Cummins-led side reclaim the top spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) standings.

With their ninth win in this cycle, Australia’s Points Percentage (PCT) has risen to 60.71%, overtaking both South Africa and India to reach the summit of the table. This victory comes as a major boost for Australia’s WTC campaign, reinforcing their dominance in the ongoing cycle.

India, on the other hand, suffered its tenth loss in the 2023-25 cycle, which has seen their PCT drop to 57.29%. This has caused India to fall to third place in the standings.

South Africa, currently in a strong position in their ongoing home Test series against Sri Lanka, could rise to the top of the table with a win, further intensifying the competition.

WTC 2023-25 Points Table (Updated till Australia vs India 2nd Test):

Pos.	Team	Mat.	Won	Lost	Drawn	Points	PCT
1	Australia	14	9	4	1	102	60.71
2	South Africa	9	5	3	1	64	59.26
3	India	16	9	6	1	110	57.29
4	Sri Lanka	10	5	5	0	60	50.00
5	England	21	11	9	1	114	45.24
6	New Zealand	13	6	7	0	69	44.23
7	Pakistan	10	4	6	0	40	33.33
8	Bangladesh	12	4	8	0	45	31.25
9	West Indies	11	2	7	2	32	24.24

Travis Head dismisses India’s ‘favourites’ tag ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Aditya Bhagchandani — Sun, 15 Sep 2024 14:57:30 +0000

With the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy just two months away, tensions are already rising between Australia and India. In the latest exchange, Australian opener Travis Head has rejected Indian pacer Mohammed Shami’s claim that India is the favourite to win the upcoming series.

Shami recently said, “India is the favourite to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy,” referring to India’s past successes, including their memorable wins on Australian soil in recent years. He believes India’s young team has proven its strength and can win again.

However, Head has a different view. Speaking to Star Sports, he expressed confidence in Australia’s chances, saying, “I don’t see India as the favourites. We’ve played against them frequently, and I’ve been in good form. The competition is always intense, but I wouldn’t call them my favourites.”

Head acknowledged India’s strength but is focused on preparing well for the upcoming series. “They are tough opponents, but I’ve enjoyed playing against them and performing in a few games. I’m looking forward to a successful summer for us,” he added.

India has been dominant in recent years, winning the last four Border-Gavaskar series, including two historic victories in Australia. This series will be closely watched as both teams aim to prove their supremacy in one of cricket’s most intense rivalries.

The 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy will feature five Test matches, starting in November, with the teams playing both day and day-night matches across iconic Australian venues.