Australia vs South Africa: Steve Smith goes past Don Bradman for this 100-year-old record at Lord's

Steve Smith on Wednesday etched his name in cricketing history by surpassing the legendary Don Bradman during the opening day of the Australia vs South Africa WTC Final clash at the Lord’s.

Smith rescued Australia from a precarious position of 4/67 after being asked to bat first, crafting a gritty 66 off 112 balls to steer his side to a total of 212. His composed knock provided much-needed stability amid a top-order collapse. In response, South Africa struggled with the bat, slumping to 43/4 by stumps and still trailing by 169 runs.

In the process, the 36-year-old batter surpassed Bradman's tally of 551 runs at Lord’s. With his 51st run, he also became the most successful overseas batter at the iconic north London venue, overtaking fellow Australian Warren Bardsley’s long-standing record of 575 runs — a mark that had remained unchallenged for nearly 100 years.



This remarkable feat solidifies Smith’s reputation as one of the modern greats of Test cricket.

Known for his unorthodox technique and consistency, Smith has been a thorn in the side of many bowling attacks worldwide. His latest milestone at the 'Home of Cricket' is a testament to his class, resilience, and ability to deliver on the biggest stages.

South African pacers Kagiso Rabada and Jansen decimated Australia's revamped opening line-up while Smith continued his remarkable performance, achieving his 18th fifty or more runs on English grounds - establishing a new Test record for overseas batters.

The experienced right-handed batter conjured a crucial 79-run partnership for the fifth wicket alongside all-rounder Beau Webster, who played a fine innings of 72 runs.

The duo accelerated their scoring rate after lunch, accumulating 50 runs in 78 deliveries, effectively regaining control of the innings following an uncertain beginning.

Smith, who looked well set for a century, was dismissed by Aiden Markram after edging a fuller delivery to Marco Jansen at slip.

Reflecting on the dismissal and Australia's approach for the second innings, Smith offered a wry piece of advice. When asked about any key takeaways from the day’s play, he said bluntly, “Don’t nick the part-time off-spinner,” summing up the frustration of falling to a part-time bowler despite being in fine touch.