Smith hits dogged century as Australia close in on England

Dunya News

Smith claimed his 21st Test century with a flourishing cover drive off Stuart Broad.

BRISBANE (AFP) - Skipper Steve Smith reached a dogged century in almost seven hours as Australia edged closer to England’s first innings total in the first Ashes Test at the Gabba on Saturday.

Smith claimed his 21st Test century with a flourishing cover drive off Stuart Broad nearing tea to bring up one of his most disciplined Test innings.

He batted for 412 minutes and faced 261 balls to reach triple figures to get his team within 34 runs of England’s 302 first innings total at 268 for seven.

Pat Cummins gave him splendid support and reached his highest Test score of 35 ahead of the tea interval.