January 29, 2025: Ricky Ponting’s analysis of Steve Smith’s position as the best player of his generation highlights just how remarkable Smith’s career has been, especially when you consider his ability to thrive across all conditions. Reaching 10,000 Test runs is a monumental achievement, and doing so with such consistency—particularly in overseas conditions—only adds weight to the argument that Smith is truly one of the greats of his era.
Ponting’s acknowledgment of the “Fab Four”—Smith, Virat Kohli, Joe Root, and Kane Williamson—brings an interesting perspective. Each of these players has their unique strengths and achievements, but Smith’s numbers, especially his performance outside Australia, place him in an elite class. His average of 53.51 in overseas conditions and his ability to score runs in a variety of situations are what make his record stand out. It’s impressive to see that nearly half of his career runs have come away from home, demonstrating his adaptability.
While Smith’s consistency is evident, Ponting also makes an important point about Joe Root’s resurgence, noting that Root’s recent form has propelled him back into the conversation. But still, it’s Smith’s overall numbers that seem to make him hard to beat, especially when looking at longevity and adaptability.
For fans and players alike, comparing these four greats often comes down to personal preferences and regional loyalties, but looking purely at the numbers, Smith certainly makes a compelling case. His 35th Test century is another testament to his brilliance, further cementing his legacy as one of the best in the modern game.