Ashes 2023: Steve Smith dons 'special' 100th Test jersey for Australia at Headingley

With England and Australia locking horns in the third Test at Headingley from Thursday, July 6, it could prove to be a memorable occasion for Australia for several reasons. If the Pat Cummins-led side is able to win the third Test of the Ashes 2023, they will have won the series, and it could be historic as this will be their first series win in England since 2001.

However, no matter the result, the Headingley Test will be especially memorable for the veteran Aussie batter, Steve Smith. The 34-year-old features in his landmark 100th Test match for Australia, and in a career of immense grit and longevity, Smith has solidified himself as one of the greatest batters of this generation.

In the 99 Test matches that Smith has played so far, he has amassed a whopping 9113 runs to his name at an average of 59.56 runs, and in the process, the 34-year-old hit 32 tons and 37 half-centuries. As he plays in his 100th Test, Smith will be seen donning a special jersey for his landmark game. In the same vein, Smith took to social media to share a picture of his special jersey in his landmark 100th Test.

"Ashes Prep done. Let’s go AU," Smith wrote on his Instagram handle.

Smith was sensational for Australia at Lord’s

Right before the start of the Ashes 2023, it was a given that the performances of Steve Smith could prove to be key for the Aussies in winning the marquee series. When the time came for the first Test at Edgbaston, Smith was unable to make his mark on the game as he only managed to score 22 runs across the two innings of the first Test.

However, it was at the Lord’s Cricket Ground where Smith played some of his best cricket. Scoring his 32nd Test ton, the 34-year-old amassed 110 runs on the board in 184 balls in the first innings and scored 34 runs in the second innings. His performance was crucial for Australia in winning the game by 43 runs.