SA vs AUS WTC Final 2025: Steve Smith Creates History, Becomes First Non-English Batter To Achieve MASSIVE Feat

SA vs AUS WTC Final: Australia's seasoned batter Steve Smith continued his love affair with English conditions by notching yet another milestone during the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 Final against South Africa at Lord's. The 36-year-old, batting at No. 4, showcased his trademark composure and skill, reaching his half-century in 76 deliveries.

Smith brought up the fifty in style, clipping Kagiso Rabada through the leg side for a boundary on the opening delivery of the 33rd over. This half-century not only steadied Australia's innings but also elevated Smith into the record books.

By reaching the 50-run mark, Smith now holds the record for the most 50-plus scores by a visiting batter in Test matches played in England. With 18 such scores - comprising 8 centuries and 10 fifties - in just 23 matches, he surpasses legends like Allan Border and Viv Richards, both of whom had 17 scores over 50 in England during their illustrious careers.

But the milestones didn't stop there. Smith also etched his name in another prestigious list at the Home of Cricket. By crossing 575 Test runs at Lord's, he overtook former Australian cricketer Warren Bardsley to become the highest run-scorer among overseas players in Tests at Lord's. Bardsley had accumulated 575 runs in seven innings across five matches at the iconic venue. Smith, meanwhile, has now amassed 576 runs in just six Tests at the ground.

Despite Smith's incredible feats, the all-time record for most Test runs at Lord's still belongs to Joe Root, who has 2022 runs from 22 matches, followed closely by Graham Gooch (2015) and Alastair Cook (1937), solidifying their legacy in English cricket.

Smith's latest innings under pressure not only reinforces his status as one of the modern greats but also highlights his continued dominance in conditions that have historically tested even the best visiting players.