Perth Test: Steve Smith equals Don Bradman mark as Marnus Labuschagne notches second double ton

Marnus Labuschagne has scored a second Test double hundred and Steve Smith has levelled a famous Sir Donald Bradman mark in Perth as the eccentric pair pile on the West Indies’ pain in Perth.

Labuschagne was nearly flawless in another commanding opening session for the home side, milking a defensive and tired fielding side to push his score on from an overnight 154.

Smith’s 29th century brings him level with Australia’s greatest ever batter.

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The pair’s partnership ticked over 200 — their biggest ever together — not long before Smith raised the bat.

Australia are nearing 400 before lunch on the second day.

It’s also the former captain’s third ton against the West Indies and first at Perth’s new stadium, continuing a strong run of form after playing just one game at the T20 World Cup.

Camera Icon Steve Smith reaches triple figures. Credit: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

Smith brought up his milestone with a gentle prod to mid-on off Roston Chase. His Test average against the West Indies is now 201.

Ricky Ponting and Steve Waugh both have more Test tons than Smith and Bradman, as does Matthew Hayden, who Smith is just one century away from equalling.

Labuschagne continued his Perth love affair, stretching out to a significant lead as the highest-run scorer in Optus Stadium’s short history.

His first double century came at the Sydney Cricket Ground against New Zealand in 2020 — a score of 215.

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Steve Smith has equalled Don Bradman’s number of Test hundreds.

Steve Smith has equalled Don Bradman’s number of Test hundreds.

One of the more testing periods of Labuschagne’s innings came in the 190’s, where he was tested by towering seamer Alzarri Joseph from the Justin Langer Stand end.

Writing exclusively for The West Australian, former coach Langer paid tribute to the Australian no. 3 and said he was no longer Smith’s apprentice.