Steve Smith Rewrites History at the SCG: Latest from Day 3 of the Fifth Ashes Test
Australia’s stand-in captain Steve Smith delivered a masterclass on Day 3 of the final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) on January 6, 2026, scoring an unbeaten 129 to propel his team into a dominant position. Partnering with Travis Head’s explosive 163, Smith helped Australia reach 518-7 by stumps, securing a 134-run first-innings lead over England’s 384.
This innings marked Smith’s 37th Test century and his 13th in Ashes cricket, placing him second only to Sir Donald Bradman (19) in Ashes hundreds. He also surpassed England’s Jack Hobbs to become the second-highest run-scorer in Ashes history, trailing solely Bradman.
Smith’s knock, his first home Ashes century since 2017 and fifth at the SCG, came amid England’s frustrations—including dropped catches and wayward bowling. He was reprieved early on 12 but capitalized superbly, blending patience with precise strokeplay in idyllic batting conditions.
Series Context and Leadership Australia already lead the 2025-26 Ashes 3-1, eyeing a 4-1 victory. Smith has captained effectively in Pat Cummins’ absence, navigating challenges like his own earlier vertigo-like symptoms that sidelined him for one Test.
Future and Legacy At 36, Smith has quashed retirement speculation, stating he’s taking his career “series by series” with no fixed end date. He remains committed to Test cricket, mentoring younger players amid transitions like Usman Khawaja’s retirement.
Smith’s resilience underscores his status as one of Test cricket’s modern greats—technically brilliant, mentally tough, and a perennial thorn for England. As Australia push for a commanding win, his SCG masterpiece reinforces why he’s often called the “best since Bradman.”
=====
