Steve Smith: Australia's Most Complete Modern Batter
Steve Smith has a Test average above 60 and was ranked No. 1 in the world for years. Learn about his unorthodox technique, the sandpaper gate ban, and his incredible career comeback.
Steve Smith is widely regarded as the best Test batter in the world of his generation. His average of above 60 — the highest for any active Test batter — is surpassed only by Don Bradman (99.94) in cricketing history. His unorthodox technique, extraordinary powers of concentration, and exceptional ability to score in any condition make him unique.
Career statistics
| Format | Matches | Runs | Centuries | Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 112+ | 9,500+ | 33+ | 60.3+ |
| ODIs | 150+ | 4,700+ | 11+ | 43.0+ |
Technique
Smith's batting technique is famously unorthodox — his guard is outside leg stump, his head falls to the off side at the point of impact, and his backlift loops behind point. Traditional coaching would call it all wrong. But his eye, hand-eye coordination, and ability to keep his head perfectly still at ball contact compensate for every technical 'flaw.' He repeatedly makes impossible shots look routine.
2018 sandpaper gate
In March 2018, during the Cape Town Test, video showed Australia's Cameron Bancroft using sandpaper to alter the ball's surface — ball-tampering. Smith, as captain, had known about the plan. He and David Warner were banned for 12 months. Bancroft was banned for 9. The scandal damaged Australian cricket's reputation. Smith's tearful press conference — and subsequent redemption — became one of cricket's most personal human stories.
WTC Final 2023
Smith scored 121 in Australia's World Test Championship Final win over India in 2023 at The Oval. His innings anchored a decisive total. It confirmed that, despite the personal scandals, Smith's cricketing greatness remained undiminished and Australia's Test dominance continued under his batting contributions.
Frequently asked questions
What is Steve Smith's Test batting average?
Smith averages above 60 in Test cricket — the highest of any active batter. It is the second-highest ever in Test history after Don Bradman's 99.94.
Why was Steve Smith banned from cricket?
Smith was banned for 12 months in 2018 after the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal — in which Australia used sandpaper to alter the ball's surface. Smith, as captain, knew about the plan.
Is Steve Smith considered cricket's greatest batter ever?
Smith is considered among the top 5 batters ever. Don Bradman remains universally accepted as No. 1. Smith's consistent 60+ average in the modern game makes him the greatest of his era.