Steve Smith, one of the most consistent and technically gifted batsmen in cricket, has delivered several memorable performances in One Day Internationals (ODIs).
His ability to adapt to different situations and dominate bowlers has made him a standout player. Here, we analyze his top 6 best ODI innings, showcasing his brilliance on the field.
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Steve Smith’s ODI Career
Steve Smith’s career has been marked by numerous high-profile innings across various formats. His ODI performances, in particular, have been instrumental in Australia’s success in international cricket. Smith’s adaptability and skills make him a formidable opponent for any bowling lineup.
Top 6 Best ODI Innings
Let’s delve into the top six ODI innings of Steve Smith, highlighting his mastery and impact on the game.
6. 101 (118) vs Pakistan, Sharjah, 2014
In October 2014, Steve Smith scored his first ODI century against Pakistan at Sharjah. This patient knock of 101 runs off 118 balls showcased his ability to anchor an innings and adapt to challenging conditions. The match was played on a slow pitch, where Smith’s technique and temperament were put to the test.
He demonstrated his maturity by pacing his innings perfectly, ensuring Australia posted a competitive total. This performance earned him the Player of the Match award and marked a significant milestone in his ODI career.
5. 65 (69) vs Pakistan, World Cup Quarter-Final, Adelaide, 2015
Though not a century, Smith’s composed innings of 65 runs off 69 balls against Pakistan in the quarter-final of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 was crucial for Australia’s chase. Coming in during a tricky situation, he steadied the ship and ensured a smooth path to victory.
His ability to handle pressure and contribute in critical matches has been a hallmark of his career. This innings, though not as flashy as some of his other performances, highlighted his value as a middle-order batsman who can stabilize the innings when needed.
4. 105 (93) vs India, World Cup Semi-Final, Sydney, 2015
In the high-pressure semi-final of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015, Smith delivered a composed yet aggressive knock of 105 runs off just 93 balls against India. His innings laid the foundation for Australia’s imposing total of 328/7 and eventual victory.
This performance underlined his ability to thrive in critical matches. Smith’s strike rate of 112.90 was impressive, given the pressure of the occasion. His partnership with other Australian batsmen was pivotal in setting up a match-winning total.
3. 164 (157) vs New Zealand, Sydney, 2016
The highest number of runs that Steven Smith scored in an ODI match occurred during New Zealand’s tour at Sydney Cricket Ground in December 2016. Among all the players who have faced cricket balls at this stadium Smith possesses the record for the highest individual score of 164 off 157 deliveries. Using 18 hit boundaries and 4 over boundaries during this innings helped Australia reach 324/8.
During his captaincy he led Australia to a 68-run victory since his bat produced a total of 324/8 against New Zealand. During this match he demonstrated exceptional domination of bowlers which enabled him to take full control of the game.
2. 105 (66) vs India, Sydney, 2020
Smith returned to his talented form in November 2020 by batting 105 runs from 66 balls at the Sydney Cricket Ground against India. He consolidated 159.09 runs per 100 balls by scoring 105 runs from just 66 balls to exhibit complete command over Indian cricketers.
Australia received a solid foundation for their total through his offensive batting style. The match was one of many which showed how Smith controlled the Indian team’s bowling attack while proving his versatility against various conditions.
1. 104 (64) vs India, Sydney, 2020
Smith struck another century at the same ground the following day after his first of 104 runs off 64 balls when he faced India. During this inning Stephen Smith achieved a 162.50 strike rate by hitting 14 boundaries along with two maximums. The aggressive batting style of Smith enabled the Australian team to achieve a big score which led to their triumph in the match.
By doing so Smith showcased his powerful approach to increase the run scoring speed while maintaining solid batting technique which established him as one of cricket’s top threatening batters.
Conclusion
Steve Smith‘s top six ODI innings showcase his versatility and dominance in the format. The matched pressure levels bring out two different sides of Steve Smith who anchors matches in tough situations alongside delivering brutal aggressive batting displays. Through his batting performances Australia has achieved cricketing success internationally while his standing remains one of the greatest batsmen from his generation.
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