BGT 2024-25: "Felt like the WTC final" - Steve Smith reflects on his marathon partnership with Travis Head in Gabba test

Steve Smith scored 33rd test century of his test career during the third test of BGT 2024-25 in Brisbane.

The second day of the ongoing Brisbane test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 turned into a run-fest after a rain-disrupted opening day. India started the second day on the front foot with Jasprit Bumrah leading the charge for the visitors.

The Indian speedster removed Australian openers Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney in quick succession to put India on top. Things went bad to worse for the hosts when Marnus Labuschagne outside edged an outside off-stump delivery from Nitish Reddy.

At 75/3, the Aussies found themselves in a spot of bother, but Steve Smith and Travis Head joined forces to put India’s hopes to bed. The duo added 241 runs for the fourth wicket partnership to help Australia go past the 300-run mark inside 80 overs.

Head hammered his way to 152, while his partner Smith had to endure a scratchy start to post 101 off 190 deliveries. The duo not only steered Australia out of trouble, but also formed the base to power the hosts to 405/7 at the end of day’s play.

Scoring a test century after nearly 15 months, Smith shared his thoughts about his partnership with Head.

Steve Smith on 241-run stand with Head

Speaking after the day’s play, Smith shared his thoughts on his partnership with Head, which put Australia in a dominant position.

Smith said, “Obviously, had a great seat in the house to watch Travis go about his business again. It was a great partnership, and it felt a lot like the World Test Championship Final in a way,“

The Australian No.4 acknowledged that Head’s fearless approach helped him to play second fiddle and settle into his innings.

Smith continued, “The way he came out and just smacked it, I could sort of take a second fiddle and do my thing. It was a really good day,”

Smith emphasized on Head’s excellent form and concluded “The way he is able to put the bowlers under pressure from the outset is quite incredible. He’s got an unbelievable eye, and the areas in which he scores, it’s tough to put fielders in those positions.“

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