Galle, Sri Lanka, February 9 (ANI): Steve Smith inscribed himself in the history books by becoming the Australian non-wicketkeeper player to take the most Test catches.
The two-Test match series proved to be a much-needed redemption for Smith. Following a disappointing 3-0 series loss as Australia's captain in their last tour, Smith led his team, known as the Baggy Greens, to their first series victory in Sri Lanka in 14 years.
In the second Test in Galle on Sunday, Australian spinners Kuhnemann and Lyon complemented well the centuries played by Smith and Alex Carey, leading the visitors to a nine-wicket win over Sri Lanka.
During Australia's victory in the second Test, Smith caught his 200th ball in Test format, becoming the first non-wicketkeeper Australian to achieve this fielding milestone.
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In the second inning, Smith once again showed his skill in the field, successfully completing three catches. In his second chance to bat, the acting captain took a great catch to dismiss his opponent, Dhananjaya de Silva. Standing at first slip, Smith made a diving effort and successfully caught the ball with one hand.
On the final day of Day 3, Smith was called into action once again. In his bid to halt the ball from reaching the boundary, Prabath Jayasuriya miscued it out to Smith at the position of first slip. On Sunday, Smith achieved his 200th Test catch by intercepting the ball from Kusal Mendis.
This wasn't the only record Smith broke during his stint in the sub-continent. He eclipsed legendary Australian batter and former captain Ricky Ponting to become the team's leading run accumulator in Asia. In 24 Tests in Asia,
Smith has accumulated 1,983 runs with a batting average of 53.59, including 7 centuries and 8 half-centuries in 42 innings, with his highest individual score being 178*. Ponting has slipped to second place with 1,889 runs, scored in 28 matches and 48 innings, featuring 5 centuries and 10 half-centuries. His personal best score in Asian conditions is 150.
Smith has also become the sixth Australian to achieve the milestone of 17,000 international runs. He has reached this mark in 348 international matches, accumulating 17,016 runs with an average of 48.06, and achieving 48 centuries and 80 fifties. (ANI)