In 2003, former South African captain Graeme Smith captured global attention with a remarkable innings at Lord’s against England. During the second Test of their series on August 2, Smith scored an impressive 259 runs, leading South Africa to one of the most decisive away wins in cricket history. The Proteas triumphed by an innings and 92 runs, and Smith became the first South African to hit a double century at Lord’s. His score was the second-highest ever at the venue in Test matches, with England’s Graham Gooch holding the record with 333 runs against India.
South Africa has produced numerous exceptional batsmen, but few have matched the flair and elegance of Graeme Craig Smith. Renowned for his outstanding batting and sharp leadership, Smith was a formidable captain. In the match against England, South Africa won the toss and chose to bat first. Makhaya Ntini’s five-wicket haul restricted England to 173 runs, but it was Smith's batting that stole the spotlight.
Smith started strong with a brisk 79-ball fifty and surpassed 1000 Test runs on the first day. His aggressive batting continued into the second day, where he reached his century in 155 balls. Gary Kirsten supported the captain with a century off 229 balls, and together they set a new team record for the highest second-wicket partnership against England, surpassing the previous record held by Jacques Kallis and Kirsten with 238 runs in Manchester in 1998.
Smith concluded the second day with a historic double century. His dominance extended into the third day, reaching 250 runs off 350 balls before being dismissed by James Anderson for 259. Smith’s extraordinary innings included 34 boundaries.
South Africa declared their innings at 682, and another five-wicket haul from Ntini ensured their victory. The Proteas ultimately won the series 3-2 against the hosts.