Watching Virat Kohli, Steve Smith tackle spin: Australia A star’s secret to dominating India A

Australian cricket star Steve Smith has etched his name in the annals of Test cricket history, surpassing two legends with an extraordinary fielding display. The 37-year-old batter showcased his catching prowess during the third day of the first Test match between Australia and South Africa in Durban, on Sunday, October 11. In a dazzling performance, Smith managed to take four catches, including three spectacular ones, bringing his career tally to 223 catches.

This remarkable feat eclipsed the previous record set by England's Joe Root, who had amassed 220 catches in his Test career. Smith's achievement began when he swiped a sharp catch, dismissing South African captain Temba Bavuma attempting a reverse sweep against Nathan Lyon. This catch brought Smith level with Root's record of 220 catches.

However, Smith's true brilliance was on display shortly after, as he deftly dove to secure a one-handed catch after David Bedingham edged a delivery from Pat Cummins towards the slips. Just moments later, Smith struck again with a remarkable catch following Kyle Verreynne's reverse sweep.

Smith's achievements are even more impressive when considering the fewer number of matches he had to play to reach the milestone compared to Root. Now, Smith joins an elite group of Test cricket catchers, leading the pack with 223 catches. Root holds second place with 220 catches, followed by India's Rahul Dravid with 210. Sri Lanka's Mahela Jayawardene and South Africa's Jacques Kallis round out the top five catchers with 205 and 200 catches, respectively.