Introduction
Steven Smith is back! After a challenging period with low scores, the Australian cricket star proved his critics wrong with a stunning century at the Gabba. With subtle tweaks to his batting technique and a bit of luck, Smith returned to his usual best, delighting Australian fans and putting India under pressure.
A Tough Start to 2024
Smith’s form earlier in 2024 wasn’t great. In 13 innings, he averaged only 23.20, his lowest in years. His dismissals came in frustrating ways — a first-ball duck against Jasprit Bumrah, a peach of a delivery from Mohammed Siraj, and a leg-side tickle. These moments left cricket fans wondering if Smith had lost his magic touch.
But Smith saw things differently. He insisted he wasn’t “out of form,” just “out of runs.” He believed a few technical adjustments and patience would get him back on track.
Smith’s Technical Tweaks
Smith is known for constantly tinkering with his batting technique. Ahead of the Brisbane Test, he introduced a more pronounced “trigger movement” — a shift across the stumps before facing the ball.
His strategy had an element of risk, as India’s bowlers, especially Bumrah and Siraj, targeted him with straight deliveries. Bumrah even tested him with an LBW appeal on the very first ball. Later, India’s captain Rohit Sharma called for a review, but the umpire’s call went in Smith’s favor.
Smith’s patience paid off as he slowly got comfortable. A lucky inside edge against Bumrah flew past the wicketkeeper for a boundary. As the innings progressed, Smith’s movements became more fluid, his shots more confident, and his strokes more precise.
Partnership With Travis Head
One key factor in Smith’s success was his partnership with Travis Head. This was not the first time the duo had worked magic together. They shared a massive stand during the World Test Championship Final at The Oval, and they did it again at the Gabba.
The similarities were striking:
- WTC Final: Partnership started at 76/3, with Head scoring 65 and Smith 29 in the first 100 runs.
- Gabba Test: Partnership began at 75/3, with Head again smashing 65 and Smith 30 in the first 100 runs.
Head’s aggressive approach allowed Smith to play his natural, more methodical style. While Head blazed his way to a century off 115 balls, Smith focused on building his innings steadily. Their partnership of 241 runs gave Australia a strong grip on the match.
Smith later admitted, “When Head comes in after 30 overs, it makes a big difference. The ball loses its movement, and we can score freely.”
Smith’s Century Brings Relief
Smith’s second fifty came quickly — in just 57 balls. As he approached his 33rd Test century, he played his signature shots, reminding everyone why he’s considered one of the best in the game.
Notable Shots From Smith’s Innings
- On-Drive: Considered one of Smith’s trademark shots, his on-drive off Akash Deep was a sight to behold.
- Back-Foot Punch: A powerful back-foot punch against Reddy demonstrated his control.
- Advancing Shot: He danced down the pitch to Jadeja, sending the ball to the boundary.
He reached his century with a flick down to fine leg, overtaking Steve Waugh as the second-highest century scorer for Australia. Smith celebrated with a fist pump, a nod to his fans and himself for staying patient through the tough times.
What’s Next for Smith?
After finally breaking his century drought, Smith looked back at his journey with a sense of satisfaction. “You’ve got to keep the faith,” he said. “I rode my luck today, but sometimes, you need that luck.”
While he was dismissed soon after his century, his contribution had already shifted momentum in Australia’s favor. His ability to dig deep, make adjustments, and trust his process is why he remains one of the best batters in Test cricket.
Final Thoughts
Steven Smith’s return to form is a masterclass in patience, adaptability, and self-belief. By making small changes to his technique and trusting his process, he went from “out of runs” to “back in business.”
His partnership with Travis Head showcased how two contrasting styles can complement each other, while his ability to craft an innings from scratch proved why he is still one of the greats of modern cricket.
Smith’s story is a reminder to all cricket lovers — form is temporary, but class is permanent.
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