Aussie cricket Coach Darren Lehmann had nothing but good things to say concerning his skipper, Steve Smith, following the recent loss in the Indian Test series.
Smith was the sole batter who provided reliably run production, tallying 499 runs and three tons, leading Lehmann to invoke comparisons to Don Bradman, Ricky Ponting, Mark Taylor and Allan Border.
Beyond his batting prowess, however, Lehmann noted that Smith, at just 27 years of age, has shown the sort of leadership one would expect from someone beyond his age.
Lehmann says that Smith has developed his own unique style en route to eclipsing the marks set by his famous predecessors.
Smith does possess some astounding statistics, including 20 centuries from 54 Tests with a 61-run average. Smith has played a major role in the resurgence of the side that nearly took gold in India, despite the doubts expressed by some regarding Smith’s on-field presence and decision-making.
One area where Smith trails the greats Lehmann mentioned in his winning percentage as captain. Steve Waugh holds the distinction in that category at 71.92 percent. Ponting is second at 62.33, while Smith resides well back at 40.02.
Smith has held the skipper’s spot for 24 matches now, and the expectations are that his winning percentage will improve as he gains experience and the young group over which he presides gains the confidence that comes with age.
