Steve Smith Becomes Australia's Third-Highest Run-Scorer in Tests, Achieves Feat During SA vs AUS 1st Test 2026
Steve Smith has etched his name in Australian cricket history, becoming the third-highest run-scorer in Test matches for Australia. The 37-year-old batsman surpassed Steve Waugh's tally during Day 1 of the 1st Test against South Africa at Kingsmead Stadium in Durban, on October 9, 2026, solidifying his position among legends Ricky Ponting and Allan Border.
Prolific Australian batsman Steve Smith has further cemented his legacy in cricket history, becoming the third-highest run-scorer for Australia in Test matches. The momentous achievement came on Day 1 of the fiercely contested first Test against South Africa at Kingsmead Stadium in Durban today, October 9, 2026. Smith, aged 37, surpassed the formidable tally of 10,927 runs held by former Australian captain Steve Waugh, continuing his extraordinary run-scoring career that has seen him defy conventional batting techniques to accumulate a mountain of runs. He now stands behind only two other Australian legends in the all-time list. Who is Nic Maddinson? Know About Australian Opener Making Test Comeback After Battle With Testicular Cancer.
Steve Smith Scales New Heights
A Climb Among Giants
Before this series, Smith was closing in on Waugh, and a characteristic innings saw him cross the significant mark during Australia's first innings in the ongoing Test. His remarkable consistency and ability to score runs in all conditions have been a hallmark of his career, establishing him as one of the modern-day greats.
Currently, the top three Australian Test run-scorers are:
| Rank | Player | Runs |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ricky Ponting | 13,378 |
| 2 | Allan Border | 11,174 |
| 3 | Steve Smith | 10,945 |
Smith, who made his Test debut in 2010, has often been compared to the game's titans for his incredible average and ability to dominate bowling attacks. His journey from a leg-spinning all-rounder to a batting maestro is one of the most compelling narratives in contemporary cricket. Broadcaster’s Cheeky ‘Sharp Cameras’ Quip Revives Ball-Tampering Ghosts Ahead of SA vs AUS 1st Test 2026.
The Durban Showdown: Match Details
The 1st Test of the South Africa vs Australia series, which is part of the ICC World Test Championship (2025-27) cycle, began on October 9, 2026, and is scheduled to run until October 13, 2026. The match commenced at 09:30 AM local time (South Africa Standard Time, SAST), which translates to 1:00 PM IST for Indian viewers.
This Test series holds significant importance for both nations as they vie for crucial World Test Championship points. Australia, the reigning WTC champions, are keen to solidify their position, while South Africa aims to strengthen their challenge in the current cycle. As the series unfolds, all eyes will be on Steve Smith and his pursuit of further records, alongside the intense battle between two of cricket's powerhouse nations.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 09, 2026 03:46 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).