'You never write off champions' - Justin Langer, Ravi Shastri extol Steve Smith after return to form

Superstar of the Australian batting line-up, Steve Smith, scored 0, 17, and 2 in his first three innings in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. His form had been a major concern heading into the series. However, several experts and fans were hopeful that his return to No. 4 will be beneficial for him in the long run.

The former Australian captain showed his class in the third Test in Brisbane as he notched up his 33rd century in the longest format. Smith has backed up that epic performance with a fluent half-century in the first innings of the Boxing Day clash between India and Australia on Thursday, December 26. The right-handed batter remained unbeaten on 68 after facing 111 deliveries at Stumps on Day 1.

Former Australia head coach Justin Langer opined that the century at The Gabba gave Smith a lot of confidence, and the return to the middle-order has also been fruitful. Langer said that when Smith plays the pull shot and begins driving through the covers, it is a sign that he is in good nick.

"There's no replacement for runs. His last hundred will give him great confidence. Coming back to number four, his favorite position, has made a big difference. And one thing I've said many times is: you never write off champions. They are champions for a reason. When Steve Smith starts playing that pull shot where he extends his arms, and when he begins cover driving, like we saw today, you know he's in really good shape. India will need to get him out early, or they’ll face a tough time," Langer told Star Sports.

Smith doesn't hold back once he gets on a roll: Ravi Shastri

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri also reckoned that the time Smith spent at the crease in Brisbane turned out to be very helpful for the 35-year-old. Shastri highlighted Smith's ability to capitalise on good form.

"The time he spent at the crease in the last game was crucial. It was a grind—those first 40 or 50 runs—but he went through it. Today, the fluency was much better. He attacked the spinners, and his feet were moving well. Once players like Smith smell the coffee, they don’t stop. He’s not sitting on a hundred here. We’ve seen him in the past—once he gets on a roll, he doesn’t hold back or waste good form when he sees it," Shastri said.

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Australia finished the day at 311/6, with Smith and captain Pat Cummins remaining unbeaten. They will look to forge a big partnership on Day 2 to help the hosts set up a formidable first innings total.