Ashes 2017/18, 1st Test: Hits and misses

Hit: Steven Smith

A match-defining century against all odds made Australia skipper Steven Smith a clear choice for the man-of-the-match award courtesy his ground-breaking 141 not out.

The world's best batsman in the longest format of the game rose to the occasion to set the Gabbatoir on fire when it mattered the most. From fighting for survival to a blistering onslaught, Smith's defiant ton at the Gabba was an epitome of grit and resilience.

Smith batted for more than eight and a half hours for the ton that came on Day 3 of the first Ashes contest, the 21st of his 57-match Test career.

It was Smith's epic ton that provided the hosts with an edge and eventually led to their win in the Ashes opener.