Steve Smith's love affair with the Lord's continued as the Australian batsman broke a long-standing record against South Africa in the final of the World Test Championship (WTC).
The Australian superstar held one end as the others collapsed, as Australia found themselves in a bit of trouble against the Proteas in the first innings.
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Smith came in at no. 4 at a time when the Kangaroos were 16/2, and showcased another fine display with the bat to somewhat stabilize the innings.
The 36-year-old batter scored a gritty 66 off 112 deliveries before falling to Aiden Markram in the 42nd over. In the process, Smith surpassed one of his country's legends to assert his dominance not only in the Test format but also in global cricket.
READ MORE: How has South Africa performed against Australia in ICC knockout matches?
Smith overtakes Aussie legend in WTC 2025 Final
Steve Smith's half-century marked his 18th 50-plus score in England, which took him past another Aussie legend, Alan Border, who held the record of most 50-plus scores on English soil by a visiting batter. This was Smith's 42nd fifty in the red-ball format.
Smith also boasts an excellent record in Tests in England, as the batter has 2300 runs to his name in 23 matches, at an average of 56.53.
Top 5 visiting batters with most 50-plus scores in England
Steve Smith now holds the record for most fifty-plus scores in England, followed by Allan Border and Viv Richards, both of whom have 17 50-plus scores each.
| Players | Country | Fifty-plus scores |
| Steve Smith | Australia | 18 |
| Allan Border | Australia | 17 |
| Viv Richards | West Indies | 17 |
| Don Bradman | Australia | 14 |
| Gary Sobers | West Indies | 14 |