Steve Smith Sets Test Fielding Record as Australia Lead South Africa

Steve Smith broke the Test record for career catches by a fielder after taking four catches as Australia strengthened their position against South Africa at Kingsmead Stadium in Durban.

Smith began the third day of the first Test one catch behind England’s Joe Root, the previous record-holder. His four catches took his career total from 219 to 223 during his 126th Test.

South Africa bowled out for 284

Australia dismissed South Africa for 284 in reply to their first-innings score of 390. Six South African batters reached 30, but David Bedingham’s 49 was the highest individual score in the innings.

Pat Cummins led Australia’s attack with three wickets for 54 runs. Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon claimed two wickets each as Australia’s bowlers maintained pressure throughout the innings.

Australia extend lead before bad light

Australia added 33 runs from 5.4 overs in their second innings before bad light ended play. Nic Maddinson was unbeaten on 17 and Travis Head was not out on 10, leaving Australia with an overall lead of 139 runs.

The stoppage brought an early end to play for the third consecutive day. The result of the first Test was not decided by the close of play.

Smith’s record came during a match in which Australia held the advantage after restricting South Africa to a total below their first-innings score. His 223 catches now exceed the career totals of all but 11 specialist wicketkeepers.