Steve Smith returns with Gabba hundred, sends Ashes warning to England | Cricket News
Steve Smith has sent an early warning to England with a brilliant century ahead of the Ashes. The Australian star returned to Sheffield Shield cricket in style, scoring a classy 118 off 176 balls for New South Wales against Queensland at the Gabba. His innings, packed with 20 boundaries and a six, showcased the kind of form that has made him one of the greatest batters of his generation. Smith’s knock helped New South Wales reach 349 for 5 at stumps on Day Two, and it was another reminder that the 35-year-old still has plenty left in the tank. The right-hander has already piled up 10,477 runs in 119 Tests at an average of 56.02, with 36 centuries and 43 fifties. In Ashes contests, he stands third on the all-time run charts with 3,417 runs from 37 matches, only behind Don Bradman and Jack Hobbs.Smith will lead Australia in Pat Cummins’ absence at the start of the Ashes. As captain, he boasts an extraordinary average of 112.28 in Ashes Tests, underlining how much he thrives under responsibility. His tactical sharpness and composure will be key assets for Australia as they aim to retain the urn on home soil. His century came just days after former teammate David Warner predicted that Smith would be the biggest threat to England this summer. Speaking on Fox Cricket, Warner said, “If that man can score big runs this summer, they’ll be fine. If he gets on a roll, it’s going to be a challenge for England. I reckon he’s got five centuries in him. He only had one net session the other day and came out and scored a hundred; that’s Steve Smith.” Warner added that Smith could finish as Australia’s second-greatest batter, only behind Bradman. “He knows his body now, he knows what he’s capable of. The one thing missing from him is winning in India, and if he wants to get there, he will,” he said. Former India coach Ravi Shastri also praised Smith’s leadership and adaptability as he prepares to captain Australia in Pat Cummins’ absence. “What’s always amazed me about Steve is his ability to adapt to different conditions and improvise, even in the middle of an innings. Captaincy will get the best out of him, that’s for sure,” said Shastri. With the first Ashes Test set to begin in Perth on November 21, Smith looks in prime touch once again. His dominance with the bat and ability to rise on the big stage make him Australia’s biggest weapon heading into the summer.
