Steve Smith vs Ricky Ponting: A Detailed ODI Stats Comparison
Steve Smith and Ricky Ponting are two of Australia’s greatest cricket legends. Smith, a modern-era batting maestro, recently retired from ODIs after the 2025 Champions Trophy. Ponting, a dominant force in his era, led Australia to multiple World Cup victories. Let’s analyze their ODI performances across different conditions and tournaments.
Ponting played over 200 matches more than Smith, giving him a longer career impact.
Smith has a higher batting average but played in an era favoring batters.
Ponting’s longevity and consistency set him apart as a more dominant force in ODIs.
Overall ODI Stats
Categories
Steve Smith
Ricky Ponting
Matches
170
375
Innings
154
365
Runs
5,800
13,704
Average
43.28
42.03
Strike Rate
86.96
80.39
50s/100s
35/12
82/30
Home ODI Performance
Categories
Steve Smith
Ricky Ponting
Matches
64
153
Innings
60
150
Runs
2,782
5,406
Average
56.77
39.17
Strike Rate
93.29
79.35
50s/100s
13/9
32/13
Insights
Smith dominates at home with a better batting average and strike rate.
Ponting played more matches but was less consistent at home.
Smith’s higher impact in home conditions makes him superior in this aspect.
Away ODI Performance
Categories
Steve Smith
Ricky Ponting
Matches
70
132
Innings
61
129
Runs
1,944
5,090
Average
32.94
45.04
Strike Rate
79.90
82.25
50s/100s
13/2
32/10
Analysis
Ponting was far superior in away ODIs, proving his adaptability.
Smith’s performances dipped outside Australia, affecting his overall impact.
Ponting’s consistency overseas made him one of the greatest all-condition batters.
ICC Events Performance
Categories
Steve Smith
Ricky Ponting
Matches
40
64
Innings
36
60
Runs
1,319
2,336
Average
43.96
44.07
Strike Rate
85.87
79.05
50s/100s
12/1
10/6
Crucial Takeaways
Ponting was a match-winner in ICC events, leading Australia to multiple World Cups.
Smith performed well in ICC tournaments but didn’t have the same big-match impact.
Ponting’s performances in 2003, 2007, and 2011 World Cups were legendary.
Both Steve Smith and Ricky Ponting are icons of Australian cricket. Smith’s home dominance and superior average make him a modern-day great. However, Ponting’s impact across conditions, longevity, and big-match temperament give him an edge. A true legend isn’t just about numbers—Ponting’s leadership and World Cup performances make him one of the best ODI batters ever.
