Steve Smith is the best batter in Test cricket of the current generation?

Steve Smith and the Australian team continued their dominant run in the longest format of the game during the ongoing first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. On Day 1 of the match, Smith reached a significant milestone, becoming only the 15th batter in Test cricket history to surpass the 10,000-run mark. The Australian batting maestro achieved this remarkable feat in his 205th Test innings, making him the fifth-fastest player to reach the milestone. Smith's journey to 10,000 runs has been a testament to his consistency, skill, and resilience over the years. His achievement in Galle adds another chapter to his illustrious career, which has already seen him establish himself as one of the finest batters in modern-day cricket.

Steve Smith has been a benchmark of excellence in Test cricket

With an unorthodox technique but exceptional temperament, Steve Smith has been a cornerstone of Australia’s batting lineup for over a decade. The 10,000-run landmark is a rare and prestigious achievement, and Smith's inclusion in this elite group further solidifies his place among the greats of the game. His ability to adapt to different conditions and consistently perform at the highest level has made him one of the most formidable players in Test cricket. As Australia continues to battle Sri Lanka in Galle, Smith’s performance will be crucial in helping his side secure a strong position in the match and potentially push for victory.

Former Indian cricketer Ravi Shastri showered high praise on Steve Smith after the Australian batter reached his 10,000-run milestone in the ongoing Test against Sri Lanka. Shastri, known for his candid and insightful commentary, lauded Smith's remarkable longevity and adaptability in the longest format of the game. He highlighted these traits as key factors in Smith’s rise to the top of world cricket and his continued success over the years.

Shastri went on to emphasize that Smith’s ability to evolve with time, maintaining a high level of performance across different conditions, is a testament to his immense skill and determination. His versatility, whether playing against spin or pace, in subcontinental or Australian conditions, has made him one of the most dangerous and reliable Test batters of his generation. Smith’s 35th Test century, which came after crossing the 10,000-run mark, further solidified his legacy as one of the game’s modern-day greats. Shastri’s words reflected the widespread admiration for Smith’s career, not just for the runs he has scored but for the consistency, mental strength, and hunger for success that have defined his journey.

“I’ve seen all these hundreds as a coach and as a broadcaster and he’s a special player. He’s so passionate about the game. What amazes me is how he’s prepared to adapt to different conditions. He got a hundred on a rank turner in India, which was special. And even when he’s not at his best, he finds ways to get into positions to score runs," stated former India head coach Ravi Shastri in a recent interview. 

"When you’re around for that length of time, there are teams analysing you, there are video analysts looking at every part of your technique. And then to still be able to be ahead of the curve — and he will average over 55 — at the age of 35, to go past 10,000 runs is special. So, I think he’s a great player,” he added. 

Meanwhile, former Australian World Cup-winning captain, Ricky Ponting, recently shared his thoughts on Steve Smith and his place among the best in Test cricket. Ponting, who himself is regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, reflected on Smith’s exceptional career and the challenges he faces in the longest format. Ponting acknowledged Smith’s remarkable consistency and ability to adapt, which have set him apart as one of the leading batters of the modern era.

He also spoke about the fierce competition in Test cricket, with players like Virat Kohli, Joe Root, and Kane Williamson pushing each other to new heights. Ponting highlighted how the competition between these top players has elevated the standard of Test cricket, making it one of the most exciting and closely contested formats in the game. Smith, according to Ponting, continues to excel by staying true to his unique style while remaining resilient in the face of evolving challenges.

"Is he the best player of his generation? It's hard to argue against it. Joe Root is the other one now, and [Kane] Williamson's record is outstanding as well. Joe's last couple of years have elevated him right back up there, I think. Five or six years ago, when this big four emerged, with [Virat] Kohli being one of those as well, Joe was probably down near the bottom part of that because he hadn't made the hundreds the other guys had made, but he's made 19 hundreds in the past four years," former Aussie captain Ricky Ponting was quoted as saying in a recent interview.