GuyFromLancs
State Vice-Captain
Steve Smith has obviously been out of the world these past few years, but I feel the “second only to Bradman” compliment has been a bit quick out of the blocks.
Between his debut and the end of 2006, here are Ponting’s figures:
109 Tests
Centuries - 33
Average = 59.38
And for good measure …
Strike Rate … 58.93
Steve Smith as of today:
Tests 61
Centuries – 23
Average – 63.75
Strike Rate 55.76
Not too dissimilar. Smith average about 4 higher which isn’t insignificant, a better but not totally dissimilar centuries per test conversion rate, and a marginally lower strike rate.
I would argue however that Ponting played in a tougher era, and was a more stylish batsman.
And besides, at the peak of his powers, Ponting was widely acknowledged to have climbed onto the Lara/Tendulkar level of batsman … but I don’t recall anyone comparing him to Bradman or calling him second best only to Bradman??
If Smith can maintain his figures for another 40 tests, then I think the conversation about him being next up after the Don can begin.
Between his debut and the end of 2006, here are Ponting’s figures:
109 Tests
Centuries - 33
Average = 59.38
And for good measure …
Strike Rate … 58.93
Steve Smith as of today:
Tests 61
Centuries – 23
Average – 63.75
Strike Rate 55.76
Not too dissimilar. Smith average about 4 higher which isn’t insignificant, a better but not totally dissimilar centuries per test conversion rate, and a marginally lower strike rate.
I would argue however that Ponting played in a tougher era, and was a more stylish batsman.
And besides, at the peak of his powers, Ponting was widely acknowledged to have climbed onto the Lara/Tendulkar level of batsman … but I don’t recall anyone comparing him to Bradman or calling him second best only to Bradman??
If Smith can maintain his figures for another 40 tests, then I think the conversation about him being next up after the Don can begin.