IAN CHAPPELL

It’s often said about a cricket team that it takes on the character of the captain. There’s now a determined defiance about this Australian team that was missing until Steve Smith delivered a stern rebuke after the Bellerive debacle when they capitulated to a relentless South African attack.

Following that ignominious defeat Smith said; “We didn’t have that fight and resilience in us.”

Well that has been one of the noticeable things about a rejuvenated Australian side in India; they have displayed a confidence and defiance that is a mirror image of their captain.

Smith was already a successful batting captain but on this tour of India he’s taken his play to another level. He’s made two centuries in three Tests and following his undefeated vigil in Ranchi, it’s apparent India’s bowlers are no closer to unlocking the secret to upending the Australian skipper.

Thirst for runs

India’s bowlers may have run out of ideas but Smith’s patience and thirst for runs is never ending.

Smith has reduced his mental errors to a minimum. He’s eradicated