Star Australian batter shines on day one of the WTC final to become the highest run-scorer at the Home of Cricket

Steve Smith's sublime form continues in red-ball cricket, and his ability to come good in big games enhances his reputation as a fierce competitor. On the opening day of the World Test Championship Final 2025 (WTC) match, the 36-year-old fought fire with fire by countering the likes of Rabada, Jansen, and Ngidi, who were in the midst of a hostile spell. He eventually fought his way through to a well-compiled 66 (112) before succumbing to Aiden Markram in the second session. 

By doing so, Steve Smith etched his name in the record books by becoming the highest run scorer at Lord's in the Test format. Smith went past some of the most iconic legendary figures, including the likes of Garfield Sobers and Don Bradman, to achieve this monumental milestone. He now holds a tally of 591 runs across 10 Test innings at Lord's, the most by any visiting batter from a Test-playing nation. 

See also: WATCH: Marco Jansen amazing reflex catch sees end of Steve Smith's innings in SA vs AUS WTC Final 2025

Most runs by a touring batter at Lord's

Player	Runs	Innings
Steve Smith	591	10
Warren Bardsley	575	07
Garfield Sobers	571	09
Don Bradman	551	08
Shivnarine Chanderpaul	512	09
Dilip Vengsarkar	508	08

Smith reached this milestone by getting to his fifty, on the back of a flourishing boundary through extra cover. This innings contributed to his remarkable record at Lord's, increasing his overall total at the venue to 591 runs. Smith and Webster forged a crucial 79-run stand for the fifth wicket to get Australia out of the woods. After being reduced to 67-4 at Lunch, Smith stood tall by getting to his fifty, which added some degree of stability to the Australian innings. 

Webster, on the other hand, seemed very fidgety at the start but began growing in confidence as the innings progressed. Smith's dismissal brought about a sudden shift in momentum as the South African quicks tore through the lower-middle order to dismantle Australia for 212. In response, Starc, Hazlewood, and Cummins launched a late assault with the ball to dent South Africa's high and reduce them to 43-4 by the end of Day 1.