Did Steve Smith Just Set a New Record for Most Test Runs by a Visiting Batter at Lord's?
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Synopsis
On June 11, Steve Smith broke the record for the most runs by a visiting batter at Lord's during the WTC final against South Africa. His remarkable innings of 66 runs, amidst challenging conditions, has further solidified his legacy in cricket history. Discover more about his journey and record-breaking achievements at this iconic venue.
Key Takeaways
- Steve Smith set a new record for most runs by a visiting batter at Lord's.
- His knock of 66 runs featured ten boundaries.
- Smith surpassed both Warren Bardsley and Don Bradman in career runs at Lord's.
- He has achieved four centuries and one fifty in his last six Tests.
- Australia is aiming to defend their WTC title.
London, June 11 (NationPress) Australia’s top batsman Steve Smith has set a remarkable new record for the highest runs achieved by a visiting player in Test matches at the legendary Lord’s Cricket Ground on the opening day of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa.
In his innings of 66 runs off 112 deliveries, featuring ten boundaries, Smith surpassed the previous record held by fellow Australian Warren Bardsley, who had scored 575 runs across seven innings at an impressive average of 115 at this famed venue, known as the ‘Home of Cricket’.
Additionally, Smith has outperformed cricketing great Don Bradman, who recorded 551 runs in eight innings at Lord’s. Before the 2025 WTC final, the 36-year-old had already notched up three fifties and two centuries at this historic ground, with his highest individual score being 215 during the second Ashes Test against England in 2015.
Smith’s contribution was crucial as Australia initially struggled at 67/4 at lunch, following an impressive bowling display by South African seamers Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, who each took two wickets. Smith formed a vital 79-run partnership for the fifth wicket with all-rounder Beau Webster, helping to stabilize Australia’s innings before falling to part-time off-spinner Aiden Markram.
With this innings of 66, Smith now boasts four centuries and one fifty in his last six Tests for Australia. This significant performance has made him the first and only player to register multiple fifty-plus scores in WTC finals.
Smith currently holds the record for the most fifties scored in Test matches played on English soil by a non-English player. He has achieved a total of 18 fifty-plus scores in Tests in England, surpassing cricket legends Allan Border and Viv Richards, who each had 17 such scores.
Australia aims to defend the World Test Championship mace they secured two years ago by defeating India in the final.
Point of View
I recognize the significance of Steve Smith's achievement in the world of cricket. His performance not only exemplifies individual brilliance but also reflects the resilience and skill of the Australian team. Such milestones enhance the narrative of cricketing excellence and serve to inspire future generations of players.
NationPress
12/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What record did Steve Smith set at Lord's?
Steve Smith set a new record for the most runs scored by a visiting batter in Test matches at Lord's, achieving 66 runs during the WTC final against South Africa.
How many fifties has Steve Smith scored at Lord's?
Steve Smith has scored 18 fifty-plus scores in Test matches played on English soil, surpassing legends Allan Border and Viv Richards.
What was Australia’s position when Smith came to bat?
Australia was struggling at 67/4 at lunch before Steve Smith's innings helped stabilize their performance.
Who did Smith surpass to set this record?
Steve Smith surpassed Warren Bardsley's record of 575 runs and Don Bradman's tally of 551 runs at Lord's.
What is the significance of the WTC final for Australia?
Australia aims to reclaim the World Test Championship mace, having previously won it against India two years ago.
