Steve Smith grabbed a stunning one-handed catch at the first slip diving to his right to help Australia bag a crucial wicket of Indian opener KL Rahul on Day 4 of the India vs Australia 3rd Test at The Gabba in Brisbane on December 17 (Tuesday). Interestingly, this came after Smith dropped an easiest of the slip catches on the very first ball of Day 4, affording Rahul an early reprieve while his score was 33. However, Smith redeemed himself by grabbing a blinder, denying Rahul a century.
In the 44th over, Nathan Lyon delivered a sharply spinning ball from outside off-stump. KL Rahul, cramped for room, attempted a cross-batted cut shot off the back foot, resulting in a thick edge. The ball seemed destined to fly past first slip, but Steve Smith, showcasing lightning-quick reflexes, stretched out his right hand and pulled off a stunning catch. With minimal time to react and the ball dipping downward, Smith dived low to his right to complete the grab.
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KL Rahul, in disbelief, walked back after scoring 84, falling just 16 runs short of what could have been a sensational century. Smith’s remarkable catch not only broke a crucial 67-run partnership but also provided Australia with a vital breakthrough, allowing their bowlers to target India’s lower batting order.
Watch Steve Smith’s One-Handed Catch At Slips:
Steve Smith Dropped KL Rahul On First Ball Of Day 4
On the first ball of Day 4, Smith dropped a simple catch at second slip off Pat Cummins, giving KL Rahul, India's top scorer in the Test, a reprieve on 33 runs. Smith's missed opportunity could have given Australia an early breakthrough. Throughout the session, Smith appeared visibly affected, especially as Rahul continued to score boundaries, keeping India's scoreboard ticking at The Gabba. However, in the same session Smith redeemed himself with one of the finest ever slip catches.
Watch Steve Smith dropping KL Rahul's catch earlier in the match here: