Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has given high praise to Steve Smith, stating that he ranks as the second-greatest batsman Australia has produced, second only to the legendary Sir Don Bradman. On the brink of his 100th Test appearance, Smith has been a prolific run-scorer, accumulating impressive statistics that place him among the modern-day greats of the game.
As Australia prepares to face England in the third Ashes Test at Headingley, Leeds, Steve Smith is poised to become the 14th Australian cricketer to play 100 Test matches. This milestone highlights the longevity and consistency of his career, cementing his status as one of the premier batsmen in the world.
Smith’s batting prowess is undeniable, with an incredible 9,113 runs at an outstanding average of 59.56. These numbers showcase his exceptional ability to score runs consistently, often in challenging circumstances. Ponting asserts that such remarkable achievements firmly establish Smith as a modern-day great, earning him a place among the pantheon of all-time batting legends.
In a candid interview with Nasser Hussain for the Daily Mail, Ricky Ponting emphasized Smith’s stature in Australian cricket, asserting he would be the second-greatest batsman in the country’s history, just behind the iconic Don Bradman. Ponting’s assertion is backed by Smith’s phenomenal statistics, which place him in rarified air. Statistically, Smith’s achievements are unparalleled, and his rapid ascent in the record books speaks volumes about his abilities.
Speaking with Nasser Hussain for the Daily Mail, Ponting explained: “If it all ended tomorrow, he’d be the second-greatest batsman Australia has produced after Don Bradman. Statistically, you cannot argue with that. He’s achieving things so quickly.”
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Smith’s recent exploits further solidify his place among the cricketing greats. He became the second-fastest player to reach the 9,000-run milestone in Test cricket, a testament to his remarkable consistency and hunger for runs. Moreover, his recent 32nd Test century against England at Lord’s propelled him higher on the list of players with the most centuries in the format. Smith’s rapid rise in these records exemplifies his exceptional batting prowess.
