Steve Smith Scores Double Century as Australia Dominates India 8-Wicket Victory

Steve Smith produced a masterclass of Test cricket batting on Monday, scoring an unbeaten 201 to guide Australia to a crushing eight-wicket victory over India in the third Test at Adelaide Oval, giving the hosts a 2-1 series lead.

The 34-year-old former captain was in sublime form throughout his innings, facing 312 balls and striking 19 boundaries in a display of technical excellence that reminded everyone why he's considered one of the finest batsmen of his generation. Smith's double century was his fourth in Test cricket and first since 2019.

"It feels incredible to contribute to such an important win," Smith said after reaching the milestone. "The team needed someone to bat big in this match, and I'm just glad I could deliver when it mattered. Getting back to making big hundreds is something I've worked really hard on, and this feels very satisfying."

Australia was chasing 312 for victory after dismissing India for just 175 in their second innings, with Pat Cummins taking 5-47 to bundle out the visitors. Smith's partnership with Marnus Labuschagne (87 not out) was worth 298 runs for the second wicket, effectively ending the contest as a spectacle.

India's bowlers had no answer to Smith's patient accumulation and occasional aggression, with the right-hander particularly severe on anything short or wide. His trademark leaves and precise footwork were on full display as he methodically dismantled the Indian attack led by Jasprit Bumrah and Ravichandran Ashwin.

The victory puts Australia in a commanding position to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time since 2014-15, with two matches remaining in the five-Test series. Smith's return to form after a lean period provides a massive boost to Australia's batting lineup as they chase their first home series victory against India in nearly a decade. With momentum firmly on their side, Australia will head to Melbourne for the fourth Test full of confidence.