Steve Smith Sets New Test Fielding Record with 223 Catches as Australia Edges South Africa

Smith moves to 223 career catches, a record for fielders, as Australia bowl out South Africa for 284 in reply to 390.

Published On 12 Oct 202612 Oct 2026

Steve Smith has eclipsed the Test record for most career catches by a fielder after Australia secured a commanding position on the third day of the opening Test against South Africa.

Smith claimed four catches on Sunday, lifting his tally to 223, while South Africa were dismissed for 284 in reply to Australia’s first‑innings total of 390 at Kingsmead Stadium, Durban.

Nic Maddinson (17 not out) and Travis Head (10 not out) contributed 33 runs in just 5.4 overs, extending Australia’s lead to 139 before poor light halted play for the third consecutive day.

Maddinson, who registered a duck off 33 balls in the first innings, struck two fours off Marco Jansen in the opening over of the second innings and added a six against Wiaan Mulder before the umpires called off the match.

Australia’s bowlers maintained relentless pressure on a flat pitch, and a series of South African batsmen fell to ill‑advised shots.

Six Proteas reached the thirty‑run mark, with David Bedingham top‑scoring on 49.

Captain Pat Cummins claimed three wickets for 54 runs, while Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon each took two, as Australia’s experienced bowling quartet operated with its usual efficiency.

Smith’s Slip Masterclass

Smith began the day on 219 catches, one shy of England’s Joe Root.

He matched the record when he caught Temba Bavuma, and broke it on his 126th Test appearance by lunging to his left from second slip to hold a sharp edge from Bedingham off Cummins.

Later, Smith produced a spectacular grab to dismiss Verreynne, anticipating a reverse sweep and securing the ball with an outstretched right hand.

His fourth catch came from an edge to slip by tail‑ender Anrich Nortje off the bowling of Beau Webster.

Smith’s career total of 223 catches now surpasses the tally of all but eleven specialist wicket‑keepers.

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