What is the reason behind Steve Smith hundred in the Boxing Day Test match?

Australia’s modern-day batting maestro Steve Smith has emphatically silenced his critics with back-to-back centuries against India in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25. After enduring an 18-month drought without a Test century, Smith has roared back into form, cementing his reputation as one of the most dependable batsmen in world cricket. The prolonged period without a three-figure score raised questions about his consistency, but Smith always insisted he wasn’t out of form, attributing his lean patch to missed opportunities rather than technical flaws. True to his word, the Australian stalwart has showcased his class in the series with two stunning innings.

Smith’s resurgence began in Brisbane, where he notched up a gritty 101, navigating a challenging Indian bowling attack with characteristic resilience. He followed it up with a commanding 140 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), demonstrating the hallmark patience and precision that define his batting. These innings not only dispelled doubts about his abilities but also played a crucial role in bolstering Australia’s position in the series. With these performances, Smith has sent a clear message to his detractors while reaffirming his status as a linchpin in Australia’s Test lineup. His return to scoring hundreds has undoubtedly elevated the contest, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the series.

Steve Smith's stellar century at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) marked a historic achievement in his career, placing him among cricket’s elite. By reaching his 34th Test century, Smith matched the legendary Sunil Gavaskar’s record, a testament to his consistency and class. Moreover, he surpassed Joe Root to become the leading century-maker against India, achieving his 11th ton in just 43 innings, further solidifying his dominance against one of the world’s most formidable bowling lineups.

This century was particularly significant as it came after an extended dry spell of 18 months without a Test hundred, a period that tested Smith’s resilience and mental fortitude. Despite facing mounting criticism and scrutiny over his performances, Smith remained steadfast, focusing on his preparation and trusting his abilities. His ability to overcome this challenging phase underscores his mental toughness and technical brilliance. Smith’s century not only silenced his critics but also highlighted his exceptional ability to perform under pressure. It was a defining moment that demonstrated his determination to reclaim his status as one of the finest batsmen in modern cricket. His latest feat is a reminder of the unwavering focus and dedication that has defined his illustrious career.

"Sometimes you can be hitting the ball really nicely, which I think I said to all you guys when I wasn't scoring the runs. I actually felt like I was batting pretty well. And there's a difference, I think, between being out of form and out of runs. So, yeah, I thought I was hitting the ball nicely. I mean, you've got to have faith. You've got to have a bit of trust in what you're trying to do. I've played the game for long enough now to know that you can have your ups and downs. Having some faith and confidence," stated Steve Smith in an interview.