Steve Smith Overtakes Jack Hobbs, Moves Closer to Bradman with Ashes Century

Steve Smith doesn’t just score centuries. He reorders history. At the Sydney Cricket Ground, the Australian great produced another Ashes masterclass, notching his 37th Test hundred and climbing past Jack Hobbs to sit second only to Sir Don Bradman in Ashes runs and centuries. It was a knock that reinforced Smith’s place among Test cricket’s immortals.

What did Steve Smith achieve at the SCG?

Smith scored his 37th Test century, moving past England legend Jack Hobbs to become the second-highest run-scorer and century-maker in Ashes history, behind only Don Bradman. The milestone came at his favourite venue—the Sydney Cricket Ground—where his record continues to tower over contemporaries.

Which Ashes records does Smith now hold?

Smith has amassed 3,663 Ashes runs in 41 matches at an average of 56.93, trailing only Bradman’s 5,028 runs. His 13 Ashes centuries place him second again, behind Bradman’s unmatched 19, underlining his sustained dominance in cricket’s most storied rivalry.

What makes Smith’s Ashes record exceptional?

Smith has scored centuries in seven different Ashes series, a feat matched only by Bradman, who did so across eight. His consistency against England in the modern era is unparalleled, highlighted by his 2019 Ashes tour of England where he piled up 774 runs at an astonishing average of 110.57.

How did Smith’s innings unfold in Sydney?

Smith batted with trademark discipline, reaching his century off 178 balls. He weathered an early scare when dropped on 12 by Zak Crawley at leg slip, but thereafter was impenetrable, mixing watchful defence with precise cover and straight drives that frustrated England’s bowlers.

How important was his partnership with Travis Head?

Crucial. Travis Head’s explosive 163 provided momentum, while Smith anchored the innings. Together, they pushed Australia past England’s first-innings total of 384 and stretched the lead beyond 100 runs, putting the match firmly in Australia’s control.

How does Smith compare with other Test greats?

Smith’s 37 Test centuries move him past Rahul Dravid and just one short of Kumar Sangakkara. Only Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting and Jacques Kallis have more Test hundreds. In World Test Championship history, Smith now ranks fourth among run-scorers, ahead of Kane Williamson and Ben Stokes.

Why is this knock significant for Australian cricket?

Australia have retained the Ashes with a 3–1 series lead, and Smith’s leadership—stepping in during Pat Cummins’ absence—proved decisive. His performance symbolised maturity and redemption following the 2018 ball-tampering scandal that once threatened his career.

What does this mean for Steve Smith’s legacy?

Smith is increasingly viewed as Australia’s greatest Test batsman since Bradman. At 36, he shows no signs of decline, particularly at the SCG, where his average exceeds 60. Having evolved from a leg-spinner into a batting colossus, Smith’s legacy now sits firmly among the all-time greats.  

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