Steve Smith was delighted to return back to form after his magnificent century on Day 2 of the third Test against India at the Gabba in Brisbane. Notably, Smith scored a scintillating 101 (190) with the help of eight fours registering his first century after over 18 months in the longest format.
He got involved in a massive 241-run partnership with Travis Head (152) as the duo rescued Australia from a tricky position of 75/3 and helped them cross the 300-run mark. Commenting on his knock, Smith praised the openers for seeing off the new ball and said that he rode on his luck early on.
AUS vs IND 3rd Test Day 2 Highlights
“It was nice. The top three did a pretty good job. They played 50 balls each. The new ball was doing a fair bit. It was nice to get in and get some luck early and get that partnership with Heady. He makes things look easy. The scoreboard is moving so quickly. I was toe-to-toe with him after the break but it was wonderful to watch him go. I had the best seat in the house,” Smith told the Australian broadcaster.
Australia finish day 2 on 405/7
Further speaking ahead, he expressed delight on reaching three figures after 25 innings in Tests and credited the openers.
“We have had few partnerships before and hopefully, more to go. I felt good. Missed out for a little while now. Nice to get to triple figures. I said to a few guys. Batting has been difficult, especially against the new ball. A lot of credit must go to them as well,” he added.
Courtesy of Smith and Head’s partnership, Australia ended Day 1 in a commanding position on 405/7 with Alex Carey (45*) and Mitchell Starc (7*) at the crease. For India, only Jasprit Bumrah looked threatening as he picked his 12th five-wicket haul of his career, registering figures of 5/72 in 25 overs. Apart from him, Mohammed Siraj (1/97) and Nitis Kumar Reddy (1/65) also took one wicket each.
