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Steve Smith achieves major milestone [Source: AFP]
Steve Smith once again showed why he is regarded as one of the finest slip fielders in Tests. During the 1st Test against Bangladesh at the Marrara Cricket Ground in Darwin, the Australian star produced three important catches in quick succession.
As a result, Steve Smith reached a major milestone in his Test career and moved level with England’s Joe Root for the most catches in Test cricket.
Steve Smith Shines With Three Stunning Catches
It is important to note that Australia were first bowled out for 198 after being asked to bat on a challenging surface. Smith was the standout batter for the hosts, scoring a fighting 71 runs. However, Hasan Mahmud caused major problems for Australia and finished with impressive figures of 6/55.
Then, when Bangladesh came out to bat, Smith made his biggest impact in the field. Notably, He first completed the catch of Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto. Soon after, he took another catch to dismiss Litton Das for a duck. Smith then completed his third catch by removing Mushfiqur Rahim, who had scored 36.
Notably, the 3 catches came in succession and therefore, Steve Smith created a major record in the process. It is important to note that his sharp reactions and ability to hold difficult chances at slip once again highlighted his importance in the field.
Also Read: Tanzid Hasan Shines On Australian Shores, Becomes Second Bangladesh Batter With Major Milestone
Steve Smith Joins Joe Root At The Top
With these 3 catches, Smith took his Test tally to 218 catches. As a result, he moved level with England legend Joe Root, who also has 218 catches. It is worth mentioning that Joe Root reached the mark in 165 Tests, while Smith achieved it in his 124th Test, making the Australian’s achievement even more impressive.
Smith has now gone past several legendary fielders, including Rahul Dravid and Mahela Jayawardene. Dravid finished his Test career with 210 catches, while Jayawardene took 205 catches for Sri Lanka.
Most Catches as a Fielder in Tests:
- 218 – Joe Root (England), Steve Smith (Australia)*
- 210 – Rahul Dravid (India/ICC)
- 205 – Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka)
- 200 – Jacques Kallis (South Africa)
Bangladesh Take Control In Darwin
Despite Smith’s excellent work in the field, Australia found themselves under serious pressure. Bangladesh’s batters showed great patience and made the most of the conditions.
Notably, Tanzid Hasan went on to score a brilliant Test hundred, while Shanto also made an important contribution. Bangladesh eventually moved well ahead of Australia and are currently leading by 139 runs.
Who Are Other Indians On The List?
It is important to note that Rahul Dravid remains the highest-ranked Indian in this list with 210 catches. Meanwhile, VVS Laxman is also among the leading Indian fielders, with 135 catches.
Virat Kohli, who retired from Test cricket in 2025, has 121 catches, while Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar finished his Test career with 115 catches.
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