Smith Sets New Catching Record as Australia Take Firm Grip on Test
Smith took three catches to move to 222 in Tests and pass Joe Root as Australia seized control of the opening match.
- On Sunday, October 11, 2026, Steve Smith set the world record for most catches in Test cricket at Kingsmead, reaching 222 career catches and surpassing England's Joe Root.
- Australia holds a dominant position in the first Test after posting 390 runs in their first innings, leaving South Africa trailing by 152 runs with eight wickets down.
- Pat Cummins, Australia's captain, took 3-54 leading a combined bowling effort as South Africa's batsmen played loose shots at crucial junctures throughout the contest.
- Smith showcased outstanding anticipation by taking three superb catches on Sunday, including a flying dive to dismiss David Bedingham against Nathan Lyon's spin bowling.
- South Africa remains at 238/8 trailing by 152 runs at tea on the third day, with Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj offering late resistance in an unbeaten partnership.
37 Articles
37 Articles
Steve Smith breaks Joe Root's record with four catches as Australia take 139-run lead
On the third day of the first Test match between South Africa and Australia at the Kingsmead Stadium in Durban, Australia secured a 139-run lead after dismissing the Proteas for 284 all out. This result follows Australia's first-innings total of 390, placing the visiting team in a commanding position heading into day four of the match, scheduled to take place on 11 October 2026. The decisive factor in South Africa's dismissal was the fielding pe…
Sydney Morning Herald
Smith's freakish display in Durban
Steve Smith takes three brilliant catches in Australia's first Test against South Africa.
Quick hits: Smith snatches record with miracle grabs and Marnus fumes
Steve Smith takes a hat-trick of spectacular slip catches, while Marnus Labuschagne is livid to see his effort chalked off. Here are the quick hits from day three of the first Test between Australia and South Africa.
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