Australian batsman Steve Smith is widely regarded as one of the greatest Test cricketers of all time. However, his contributions in One Day International (ODI) cricket often go underappreciated. The New South Wales player has played several memorable innings in the format, including a century against India in the semi-final of the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup.
His relentless pursuit of big hundreds and ability to play long innings has been crucial for Australia, both at home and abroad. With that in mind, let’s take a look at Steve Smith’s five highest scores in ODI cricket.
5. 108 vs South Africa, Durban, 2016
The 2016 ODI between South Africa and Australia in Durban is famously remembered for South Africa’s historic run chase. However, what is often overlooked is Steve Smith’s brilliant 108 from 107 balls, which included nine fours and a six. The New South Wales batter started off slow but picked up the pace, helping Australia to a total of 371/6 on a batting-friendly pitch.
In response, David Miller’s unbeaten 118 off 79 balls guided South Africa to a thrilling four-wicket victory.
4. 108 vs Pakistan, Perth, 2017*
Steve Smith, renowned for his ability to rotate the strike, scored an unbeaten 108 against Pakistan in Perth in 2017. Chasing a challenging target of 264, Smith led Australia’s charge with a knock of 108 off 104 balls, including 11 fours and a six. He was well-supported by Peter Handscomb, who contributed 82 runs.
Australia won by seven wickets, with Smith named Player of the Match for his efforts.
3. 131 vs India, Bengaluru, 2020
One of Smith’s most memorable ODI innings came in Bengaluru in 2020 against India. His 131-run knock, featuring 14 fours and a six, propelled Australia to a competitive first-innings total of 286. Smith was well-supported by Marnus Labuschagne, who scored 54 runs.
Despite Smith’s brilliance, Australia lost the match by seven wickets, with Rohit Sharma being named Player of the Match for his 119-run knock.
2. 149 vs India, Perth, 2016
Smith’s second-highest ODI score came in Perth during India’s 2016 tour of Australia. Chasing 310, Australia had lost both openers, David Warner and Aaron Finch, cheaply. Smith then added a crucial 242-run partnership with George Bailey, guiding Australia to a five-wicket win.
His 149-run knock, made off 135 balls and including 11 fours and two sixes, earned him the Player of the Match award.
1. 164 vs New Zealand, Sydney, 2016
Steve Smith recorded his highest-ever ODI score of 164 during the first ODI of New Zealand’s 2016 tour of Australia. Batting first, Australia posted a competitive total of 324/8, largely due to Smith’s stunning century, which featured 14 fours and four sixes. He added 127 runs with Travis Head for the fifth-wicket, setting up a strong foundation for the late order.
Australia won the match by 68 runs, with Smith named Player of the Match for his exceptional performance.