Steve Smith marked his return to Big Bash League cricket with a spectacular unbeaten 121 off 64 balls, leading Sydney Sixers to a commanding total of 222/3 against Perth Scorchers at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The innings, adorned with 10 boundaries and 7 sixes, showcased Smith’s T20 prowess as he reached his hundred in 58 deliveries.

This remarkable century holds special significance as it equals Ben McDermott’s record for most BBL hundreds (4), with Smith achieving this milestone in just 32 innings compared to McDermott’s 100 matches. The performance is particularly noteworthy given Smith’s limited BBL appearances – this being his first match of the current season following his successful Test series against India where Australia emerged victorious 3-1.

Smith’s T20 journey includes a contrasting history in the format. His maiden T20 century came in the 2016 IPL season, where he scored 101 off 54 balls for Rising Pune Supergiants against Gujarat Lions. However, his IPL career has seen a decline in recent years, with his last appearance dating back to 2021, followed by going unsold in the most recent auction held in Jeddah.

The innings marks a dramatic turnaround from his previous BBL appearance last season, where he was dismissed for a golden duck in his sole match, highlighting the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket and Smith’s ability to bounce back emphatically.