In a captivating moment during the World Test Championship (WTC) Final between India and Australia at The Oval, the scales tilted in favor of Team India as they secured a significant breakthrough by dismissing Steve Smith on Day 3. Ravindra Jadeja emerged as the key protagonist, claiming the prized wicket of Smith and bolstering India’s position in the game.
The dismissal unfolded in an unexpected manner, catching both players and spectators off guard. Steve Smith, renowned for his calculated and precise stroke play, took an audacious approach against Jadeja. Advancing down the track with a predetermined plan in mind, Smith failed to reach the pitch of the ball. Despite this, he opted for a slog shot over mid-on, even though the delivery was wide outside the off-stump. The result was an unfortunate leading edge that sent the ball spiraling high in the air.
Amidst the palpable tension, the crowd watched with bated breath as Shardul Thakur, fielding at point, sprang into action. With remarkable agility and composure, Thakur swiftly moved towards his right, meticulously tracking the ball’s trajectory. Demonstrating impeccable timing and precision, he secured a crucial catch, effectively ending Smith’s innings and sending him back to the pavilion. The sight of Smith succumbing to such an uncharacteristic shot was a rarity indeed.
Jadeja’s dismissal of Smith not only marked a pivotal moment in the WTC Final but also etched the all-rounder’s name into the annals of Test cricket history. With this dismissal, Jadeja joined an exclusive list of bowlers who have dismissed Steve Smith most frequently in Test matches. The elite group includes Stuart Broad with nine dismissals, James Anderson and Ravichandran Ashwin with eight dismissals each, and now Ravindra Jadeja, who has also claimed Smith’s wicket on eight occasions.
Bowlers dismissing Steve Smith most often in Tests
9 – Stuart Broad
8 – James Anderson
8 – Ravichandran Ashwin
8 – Ravindra Jadeja
