Muhammad Amanullah | August 14, 2026
The True Post — Australian star batter Steve Smith has equalled the world record for the most catches in Test cricket after producing another outstanding fielding performance against Bangladesh in Darwin.
Smith took three catches on the second day of the first Test against Bangladesh, taking his career total to 218 catches. With that achievement, he moved level with England’s experienced batter and captain Joe Root at the top of the Test cricket catching charts.
Steve Smith Reaches 218 Catches in 124 Tests
Smith reached the milestone in his 124th Test match.
His three catches against Bangladesh not only highlighted his exceptional fielding ability but also placed him joint-first among the players with the most catches in Test cricket history.
Fielding has been an important part of Smith’s Test career. He is particularly renowned for his outstanding reflexes in the slip position and his ability to take difficult catches.
Interesting Battle With Joe Root
Joe Root has also taken 218 catches, but he reached the mark in 166 Test matches.
This means Smith and Root are currently joint holders of the world record for the most catches in Test cricket.
The battle between the two experienced players could continue in the coming weeks. Smith is currently playing in Australia’s Test series against Bangladesh, while Root is set to feature for England in their three-Test series against Pakistan, beginning on August 19.
Rahul Dravid in Third Place
Former India captain and batter Rahul Dravid is third on the list of players with the most Test catches.
Dravid finished his Test career with 210 catches.
Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene is fourth with 205 catches, which he accumulated in 149 Test matches.
South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis is also among the leading fielders in Test history. Kallis took 200 catches in 166 Tests, putting him fifth on the list.
Who Will Hold the Record?
The battle between Steve Smith and Joe Root for the record of most Test catches is likely to attract even more attention as both players continue their international careers.
Smith has opportunities to increase his tally during the ongoing series against Bangladesh, while Root will have a chance to move ahead when England face Pakistan in their upcoming Test series.
Australia are currently playing Bangladesh in a two-Test series, while England and Pakistan are scheduled to begin their three-Test series on August 19.
With both Smith and Root still active at international level, the Test cricket catching record could change again in the coming matches.
