Australia’s Steve Smith’s struggles in red-ball cricket continued as he was dismissed for a duck in the second innings of a Sheffield Shield match against Victoria on October 22. In the first innings, the 35-year-old had managed just three runs. Smith’s century drought in first-class cricket now stretches back to June 2023, and he has recorded only one fifty-plus score in 2024. Despite the announcement that Smith would return to his usual number four spot in Australia's batting order for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting November 22 in Perth, he played at number three for New South Wales in this game, only to experience another disappointing outing. Also Read: Virat Kohli vs Steve Smith: Who is a Better Batsman? Watch the video here: A duck for Smith!Watch live #SheffieldShield: https://t.co/Qg3oHp6yAq pic.twitter.com/LLrskS4DND — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) October 22, 2024 In the first innings, Smith struggled, managing just three runs off 29 balls before being caught behind by wicketkeeper Sam Harper off pacer Fergus O'Neill. His fortunes didn't improve in the second innings either, as he was dismissed for a four-ball duck, trapped leg-before by Scott Boland. This dismal start to Smith's preparations for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is undoubtedly disappointing for the Australian team and cricket fans alike, especially those who admire this batter for his unique batting style. Smith will return to the number four spot in the upcoming BGT 2024/25 series against India, following a relatively poor stint as a Test opener in International cricket. However, fans can look forward to seeing one of the modern era's finest batters back in his most successful position. At number four, where Smith has spent much of his career, he has amassed 5,966 runs in 111 innings across 67 Tests, boasting an impressive average of 61.50, with 19 centuries and 26 fifties to his name. Expect some fireworks!