Steve Smith surpasses Dravid, only behind Bradman in all-time Ashes list with 37th Test ton

New Delhi: Steve Smith scored his first century at home since 2017 and the 37th of his career to put Australia in a commanding position in the fifth Ashes Test and, in the process, moved closer to Don Bradman's long-standing record. Smith's sensational century helped Australia reach 518/7 at Stumps on Day 3 at the Sydney Cricket Ground, with a significant lead of 134 over England. 

Smith will resume his innings on 129 on Day 4 and will look to add more runs to his Ashes tally, which is now only behind legendary Australian batter Bradman. Batting alongside Smith is all-rounder Beau Webster, who has played superbly so far with his breezy 48-run knock.

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During his breathtaking knock, which comprised 15 fours and a maximum, Smith became the second-highest run-getter in Ashes history after surpassing England great Jack Hobbs, who amassed 3636 runs in 41 matches and 71 innings in the Ashes at a superb average of 54.26. Out of his 15 centuries, 13 came against Australia in the Ashes.

Meanwhile, Smith, who scored his 13th century against England, sits second in the list with 3644 runs in 41 matches and 73 innings at a stunning average of 56.93. Along with 13 tons, Smith has also scored 15 half-centuries in the Ashes.

Bradman, widely regarded as the greatest batter of all time, is the top run-scorer in Ashes history. The right-hand batter scored 5028 runs in 37 matches and 63 innings at an astonishing average of 89.78 with the help of 19 centuries and 12 half-centuries.

Smith also surpassed India batting icon Rahul Dravid with his 37th Test century and now ranks sixth for most centuries in Tests. The Aussie batter is only behind five batters - Sachin Tendulkar (51), Jacques Kallis (45), Joe Root (41), Ricky Ponting (41) and Kumar Sangakkara (39) - in the list of cricketers with the most Test tons.

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Courtesy of Smith's measured knock and Travis Head's blazing 163 off 166 (24 fours and 1 six), Australia find themselves in a strong position to win the final Test and the series 4-1.

Smith and Head helped the hosts give a strong reply to England, who amassed 384 in the first innings thanks to Joe Root's majestic knock of 160 and Harry Brook's 84.