Steve Smith reaches 10,000 runs in Australia vs Sri Lanka opener, chases Younis Khan

Smith became the 15th batter in history to surpass 10,000 Test runs, achieving it against Sri Lanka in Galle.

Steve Smith joined an elite group of cricketers by surpassing 10,000 Test runs during the opening day of Australia’s first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.

 

 

 

 

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The 35-year-old, leading the side in Pat Cummins’ absence, reached the milestone with a single off his first delivery after coming to the crease.

Smith, who started the match on 9,999 runs, arrived at the wicket following the dismissals of Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne.

With a nudge to mid-on, he became the fourth Australian to cross the 10,000-run mark, following Allan Border, Steve Waugh, and Ricky Ponting.

"Fortunately hit that one in the gap so nice to get that one away," Smith told Australia’s 7Cricket after reaching the landmark. He remained unbeaten on 64 at tea.

India’s Sachin Tendulkar remains the highest run-scorer in Test history with 15,921 runs, followed by Ponting with 13,378, and Kallis with 13,289.

Next on the list for Smith will be Pakistan's Younis Khan. Khan is currently at 14th with 10,099 runs across his test career.

Smith’s achievement solidifies his place among Australia’s greats as he continues to build on his already illustrious career.