Australian batting maestro Steve Smith has once again etched his name into the history books, creating a new Test record for Australia in matches against their oldest rival, England. The prolific right-hander achieved this significant milestone during the ongoing Ashes series, surpassing the legendary Greg Chappell in an elite list of Australian run-scorers.
A Historic Innings and a New Benchmark
The record fell during a crucial knock in the first Test of the 2025 Ashes series. Smith, known for his unorthodox technique and immense concentration, played a characteristically gritty innings. It was during this performance that he went past the tally of runs scored by former captain Greg Chappell in the historic rivalry. Chappell had scored 1,440 runs in 22 Test matches against England. Smith, entering the match needing just a few runs to overtake this mark, did so with a signature boundary or a deft single, solidifying his status as one of the greatest modern batters in the contest.
Climbing the All-Time Australian Ranks
This achievement places Steve Smith in rarefied air among Australian cricketing giants. By moving past Chappell, Smith now sits behind only a handful of iconic names on the list of highest Australian run-getters in the Ashes. The top of this prestigious list is still held by the incomparable Sir Donald Bradman, whose staggering average and run tally remain a distant dream for most. Other legends like Allan Border, Steve Waugh, and Ricky Ponting occupy the spots above Smith. However, given his current form and hunger for runs, Smith is well-positioned to climb even higher in the coming matches of this series.
This record adds another layer to Smith's already illustrious career against England. He has been a perennial thorn in England's side, scoring centuries in crucial situations across multiple Ashes series both at home and away. His ability to perform under pressure in the biggest rivalry in cricket has defined his legacy.
Context and Significance in the 2025 Ashes
The record-breaking moment came at a vital time for the Australian team. The first Test of the 2025 series was finely poised, and Smith's experience was crucial in steadying the innings or building a formidable total, depending on the match situation. His mastery over the English bowling attack, which has planned for his dismissal for over a decade, was on full display.
This milestone is a testament to Smith's longevity and consistency at the highest level. Since his Test debut, he has maintained an average well above 50, a figure that puts him in the same conversation as the all-time greats of the sport. Surpassing a figure like Greg Chappell, a captain and batsman revered in Australian cricket history, is a personal triumph and a moment of national sporting pride.
The achievement was acknowledged by teammates, commentators, and fans worldwide, with many highlighting it as an inevitable feat given Smith's extraordinary career statistics. As the Ashes series progresses, all eyes will now be on Smith to see how much further he can extend this new record and which legendary name he will target next on the all-time list.
