Steve Smith passes Joe Root to set the record for most Test catches by a fielder
11 October 2026
Australia's Steve Smith set the record for the most catches by a fielder in Test cricket on 11 October 2026, the third day of the first Test against South Africa at Kingsmead in Durban.
Smith held four catches on the day to reach 223, passing England's Joe Root, who had held the previous mark of 220.
Australia made 390 in their first innings and South Africa replied with 284.
At stumps Australia were 33 without loss in their second innings, a lead of 139 runs.
Smith's Test catches:
223
Previous record (Joe Root):
220
Venue:
Kingsmead, Durban
Why it matters for exams: Cricket records and the players who hold them are among the most frequently asked sports facts.
Kerala PSCSSC