Galle [Sri Lanka]: Australian cricket has witnessed another historic moment as Steve Smith crossed the monumental 10,000-run mark in Test cricket during the first Test against Sri Lanka at Galle. This feat makes him the fourth Australian to achieve this milestone and only the 15th player globally. The occasion was hailed by former Australian spinner Kerry O’Keeffe, who shared his thoughts on Smith’s extraordinary journey.
O’Keeffe Remembers Smith’s Early Days
In a reflective conversation on Fox Cricket, Kerry O’Keeffe recalled watching Smith as a teenager when he started as a leg-spin bowling all-rounder with a flawed action. O’Keeffe humorously reminisced about Smith’s wristy deliveries, some of which were “jaffas” and others “filth.” But his true potential shone when he picked up a bat, and O’Keeffe immediately saw Smith’s innate talent.
🗣️ “I saw what he did with that hand-eye coordination and I thought, ‘Nup. He bats.’ He was born a cricketer.”
Smith’s Legacy as a Master Batsman
O’Keeffe described how Smith’s remarkable ability to play spinners from all angles and exploit impossible positions made him a nightmare for bowlers, especially slow bowlers. He quickly realized that Smith would dominate over the years and reach great heights in Test cricket.
O’Keeffe’s Best Australian XI
In a tribute to Smith’s legendary career, O’Keeffe included him in his “best-ever Australian team” at number 3, alongside cricket legends like Matthew Hayden, Greg Chappell, and Adam Gilchrist. His average of 67.07 in 17 Tests at number 3 was highlighted as exceptional.
🗣️ “If I am picking on stats, I have got ‘Smudge’ going in at first drop.”
Smith’s Stats and Career Highlights
- 10,103 Test runs from 115 Tests and 205 innings at an average of 56.44.
- 35 centuries and 41 fifties, with his highest score being 239.
- Smith is now the fourth Australian after Ricky Ponting, Allan Border, and Steve Waugh to score 10,000 Test runs.
Future of Steve Smith
Though Smith is in the later stages of his career, O’Keeffe believes that he is far from done. Smith’s mental fortitude and ability to prove people wrong have kept him at the top of his game, and he has the potential to keep adding to his tally as he approaches his late 30s.
🗣️ “He has the best psyche I think of any cricketer I have seen, because he shuts out everything else and just bats.”
Smith’s Performance in Galle Test
On the first day of the ongoing Test match, Smith ended unbeaten on 104* from 188 balls, as he and Usman Khawaja (147*) put together a 195-run partnership. Australia finished the day at 330/2.