Key Takeaways
Graeme Smith, South Africa's greatest cricket captain and prolific left-handed batter, excelled in all formats.
He played 117 Tests, 197 ODIs, and 33 T20Is, scoring 9265 Test runs, 6989 ODI runs, and numerous match-winning innings.
Notable innings include 277 and 259 against England in 2003, 234 against Pakistan in Dubai, and match-winning ODI knocks against India and Australia.
Graeme Smith, South Africa’s legendary captain, was a dominant force in cricket, showcasing extraordinary skills as a batter and leader. His consistency across formats redefined South African cricket.
He has played 117 Test Matches for South Africa and 197 ODI Matches as well for his country and not only that he also has featured in 33 T20IS for South Africa showing that he is an all format player.
Question: What are Graeme Smith’s best innings?
Answer: Graeme Smith's best innings include his record-breaking 277 and 259 against England in 2003, a commanding 234 against Pakistan in 2013, an unbeaten 134* against India in 2005, and 119* against Australia in 2006.
Top 5 Best Innings of Graeme Smith
277 vs England (2003)
Smith's career-best 277 at Edgbaston came on a challenging pitch, dismantling England's potent bowling attack. Facing the likes of Jimmy Anderson and Andrew Flintoff, he struck 35 fours, dominating the match from start to finish.
259 vs England (2003)
Continuing his form, Smith smashed 259 at Lord’s, hitting 34 fours at a strike rate of 70. His masterclass powered South Africa to an innings victory, cementing his dominance in the series.
234 vs Pakistan (2013)
On Dubai's slow pitch, Smith's 234 exemplified grit and adaptability. Against a strong Pakistan attack featuring Saeed Ajmal, his strategic batting helped South Africa control the game.
134* vs India (2005)
Smith’s highest ODI score, 134*, came in a flawless chase at Eden Gardens. With a strike rate of 108, he carried his bat, smashing 20 fours and a six to guide South Africa to a 10-wicket win.
119* vs Australia (2006)
In a rain-affected ODI, Smith’s unbeaten 119 ensured a comfortable chase against Australia’s star-studded bowling lineup. His 124-ball knock sealed a six-wicket victory for South Africa.
Graeme Smith Stats in International Cricket:
Format | Test Cricket | ODI | T20I |
Matches | 117 | 197 | 33 |
Innings | 205 | 194 | 33 |
Runs | 9265 | 6,989 | 982 |
Highest Score | 277 | 141 | 89* |
Average | 48.25 | 37.98 | 31.67 |
Strike Rate | 59.67 | 80.81 | 127.53 |
100s | 27 | 10 | 0 |
50s | 38 | 47 | 5 |
Also Read:
Greatest South African Cricketers of all time
