In just 64 balls, Steve Smith hit 121 to lead the Sydney Sixers to victory over the Perth Scorchers.
During Saturday’s match between the Sydney Sixers and Perth Scorchers, Steve Smith tied the record for the most centuries in BBL history. The 35-year-old Australian great equaled the record with an undefeated 121 off just 64 balls, hitting seven lofty sixes and 10 fours. The Sixers amassed a commanding 222/3 in their 20 overs thanks to his effort, setting the stage for an exciting match. Smith’s century off 58 deliveries was his third in BBL history and his fourth in T20 cricket.
With this accomplishment, he tied the competition’s record for most hundreds held by Ben McDermott. Interestingly, Smith reached this milestone in just his 32nd BBL innings, which is a significant difference from McDermott’s 100 league games.
After playing a key part in Australia’s 3-1 Border-Gavaskar Trophy victory over India earlier in January, Smith joined the Sixers and made his first appearance of the current BBL season. After a golden duck in his only BBL appearance last season, his comeback to the T20 circuit was nothing short of spectacular, putting a stop to any skepticism.Smith’s remarkable T20 record, which started with his first T20 century in the 2016 Indian Premier League (IPL), was further enhanced by his outstanding performance on Saturday. He crushed a 54-ball 101 against the Gujarat Lions while playing for the Rising Pune Supergiants.
Smith did not sell at the 2024 mega auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and has not participated in the IPL since 2021 despite his accomplishments.Due to national obligations, Smith’s availability for the Sixers in this BBL edition is restricted. Before departing to lead Australia in their two-Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins on January 29, he is only scheduled to play two more league games on January 15 and 17. For the Sixers, his absence from the playoffs, which start on January 21, will be a major setback.
