Steve Smith showcased his class in the fifth and final Ashes Test on Day 3, smashing his 37th century in the format. This marked the 123rd Test match of his illustrious career—the same number of matches Virat Kohli played for India before announcing his retirement from the format last year. On that note, let us take a look at the statistical comparison between Smith and Kohli after 123 Tests.

Smith is winning this battle hands down, having displayed immense composure at various stages of his career. Kohli was not far behind until 2019, but his last five to six years in Test cricket did not go as planned. Although the former India skipper managed to score a couple of centuries, he lacked consistency during this phase. As a result, his career average dropped below 50 before he eventually retired ahead of the England tour in 2025.

From a statistical perspective, Kohli scored 9,230 runs in 123 Test matches at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 fifties. In the same number of Tests, Smith is closing in on 11,000 runs. In Sydney, he brought up his 37th Test century, with his career average standing above 56.

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Steve Smith having a ball on the way to a 37th Test century 🙃

More 📲 https://t.co/BlCDoc9Fup#WTC27 #AUSvENG pic.twitter.com/3EIzResbuH

— ICC (@ICC) January 6, 2026

Steve Smith vs Virat Kohli stats after 123 matches in Test cricket

Steve Smith becomes second-highest run-scorer in Ashes history

Steve Smith became the second-highest run-scorer in Ashes history on Tuesday (January 6, 2026). The right-handed batter achieved the milestone on Day 2 of the fifth and final Ashes Test against England at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

During Australia’s first innings, Smith went past England legend Jack Hobbs, who scored 3,636 runs in 41 matches and 71 innings in the Ashes. Hobbs averaged an impressive 54.26 and hit 13 centuries along with 15 half-centuries.

Smith, now ranked second on the list, has scored 3,644 runs in 41 matches and 73 innings at a brilliant average of 56.93. He has also registered 13 centuries and 15 half-centuries in the Ashes so far.

Australian great Don Bradman remains the leading run-scorer in Ashes history. Bradman amassed 5,028 runs in 37 matches and 63 innings at an incredible average of 89.78, including 19 centuries and 12 half-centuries. However, it remains to be seen whether Smith can cross the 12,000-run mark before he retires from international cricket.