Steve Smith Becomes Third Australian To Complete 11,000 Runs in Test Cricket
Steve Smith has joined the elite 11,000-run club in Test cricket, becoming only the 12th player overall and third Australian to achieve the milestone during Day 4 of the 2nd Test against South Africa at St George's Park on October 21, 2026. He joins legends Ricky Ponting and Allan Border in this exclusive group, despite Australia's struggles in the match.
Prolific Australian batsman Steve Smith has added another feather to his illustrious cap, reaching the rare milestone of 11,000 Test runs today during the Day 4 action of the 2nd Test against South Africa. Smith's achievement places him in an exclusive club, cementing his legacy as one of the game's all-time greats. Marco Jansen Claims Fifth Five-Wicket Haul in Test Cricket, Achieves Feat During SA vs AUS 2nd Test 2026.
The Milestone Moment
The 37-year-old right-hander brought up his 11,000th Test run with a single off the bowling of Marco Jansen in the 39.1 over of Australia's first innings. The moment of personal triumph, however, was quickly followed by his dismissal shortly after, bowled by Wiaan Mulder for 28 runs off 88 deliveries. Smith had been battling neck issues during his innings, visibly struggling at the crease before being cleaned up by a delivery that nipped back from a good length.
Elite Company
Smith now stands as only the 12th player in the history of Test cricket to cross the 11,000-run mark. Among Australians, he joins an even more exclusive pantheon, becoming just the third player from his nation to achieve this feat, alongside legends Ricky Ponting (13,378 runs) and Allan Border (11,174 runs).
Match Situation
Despite Smith's individual brilliance, Australia found themselves in a precarious position against the Proteas. On Day 4, Australia were 97/8 in their first innings, still trailing South Africa's declared total of 425/9 by a massive 328 runs. South African bowler Marco Jansen was particularly destructive, claiming five wickets to dismantle the Australian top order. The match, part of the Australia tour of South Africa 2026, commenced on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM LOCAL at St George's Park in Gqeberha. South Africa vs Australia Live Streaming Online and Free Telecast, 2nd Test 2026, Day 4.
Smith's entry into the 11,000-run club is a testament to his consistent excellence and enduring quality in the longest format of the game. While the team faces a daunting challenge in this Test, Smith's personal milestone provides a moment of celebration for Australian cricket. The series is a crucial fixture in the ongoing World Test Championship.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 21, 2026 05:05 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).