Australian captain Steve Smith’s love affair with the MCG
IT had been a long, long time since Steve Smith was dismissed at the MCG. That all changed this morning when an English debutant rattled his castle. Here’s how imperious he has been at cricket’s cathedral.
Cricket
Don't miss out on the headlines from Cricket. Followed categories will be added to My News.
IT had been a long, long time since Steve Smith was dismissed at the MCG. That all changed this morning when an English debutant rattled his castle.
The Australian captain has been imperious at cricket’s cathedral over the past three years.
Smith had scored 445 Test runs in Melbourne without losing his wicket before chopping a Tom Curran delivery onto his stumps early on Day Two of the Fourth Ashes Test.
LIVE COVERAGE: EVERY MOMENT OF THE MCG TEST COVERED
The 28-year-old’s most recent dismissal on the hallowed turf came three years ago when he was caught at leg slip for 14 (having made 192 in the first innings of that Test against India).
In the time between those two dismissals, Smith has featured in 12 Test series around the world, scoring 15 centuries — two of which were unbeaten tons at the MCG.
With his departure for 76 this morning, Smith now averages a remarkable 119 from six Tests at the MCG, making it statistically his most productive Test venue in Australia.
Smith now sports a career average of 63.32 with 5796 runs from 59 Tests and 108 innings. His superb ability to turn 50s into 100s is reflected by his 22 tons up against 21 half centuries, with a highest score of 239.
Just a little food for thought, Australia has had 10 debutants in the time between his dismissals at the ‘G, while crowds of 100,021 (AFL grand final), 99,382 (Manchester City v Real Madrid), 93,013 (cricket World Cup final) and 91,513 (State of Origin game) have packed the iconic stadium.
Analysis: Battle royale looms at the MCG
A potential Cameron Green sized hole has left Aussie selectors with a huge headache. And after having their first look at how to solve it, it’s now even more unclear, as a 19-year-old and a veteran both made monster hundreds.
Test hopeful and teen star set Shield alight
The national selection chief was in Sydney to watch a rising star carve out a maiden century as Victorian Test hopeful also opened the Sheffield Shield season in style.