Logo

Logo

1st Ashes Test, Day 3: Centurion Steve Smith leads Australia to 328

Smith struck in tough times as England tried to trap him through a modern-day ‘Bodyline’ fielding strategy.

1st Ashes Test, Day 3: Centurion Steve Smith leads Australia to 328

Steve Smith (Photo: AFP)

Steve Smith led by example when he scored an impressive 141-run knock (not out) to help Australia fight back after top-order collapse, propelling them to 328 runs in their innings on Day 3 of the first Ashes Test in Brisbane on Saturday.

Smith struck in tough times as England tried to trap him through a modern-day ‘Bodyline’ fielding strategy. He scored 14 boundaries in his composed 326-ball knock.

With Smith being the lone warrior, Australia lead the Test match by 26 runs. England, who won the toss and opted to bat first, had scored 302 runs in their innings.

Advertisement

Paceman Stuart Broad led the bowling attack for England, claiming three big wickets in Cameron Bancroft (5), Shaun Marsh (51) and Mitchell Starc (6).

Experienced campaigners James Anderson and Moeen Ali also contributed in the bowling assault claiming two wickets each.

Young-guns Chris Woakes and Jake Ball joined the party after taking the scalp of Pat Cummins (42) and David Warner (26) respectively.

 

 

Earlier at lunch, Australia were 213 for seven, trailing by 89 runs with Smith holding firm on 81 and Pat Cummins on two. Smith added just 17 runs in the two-hour session.

 

Smith had a moment to celebrate when he was on 69 and a rearing Jake Ball delivery hit the top of his bat but fell out of the reach of a close-in fielder.

Advertisement