A reliable wicket-keeper and a steely batsman lower order the order, Ian Smith figured in 63 Tests and 98 ODIs for New Zealand. Smith was a vital component of the New Zealand team of the 80's, which consistently punched above its weight, beating Australia and England and even holding the imposing West Indies to a draw.

Ian Smith plunged into the record books when he launched a scathing counter-attack on India - coming in at 131 for the fall of 7 wickets, Smith slammed 173 runs off 136 balls, thus becoming the holder of the highest score for a Test batsman at Number 9. He was more dangerous in limited overs cricket as evidenced by his strike-rate of 99.43. His best ODI score came against Pakistan in 1992 when he hit a breezy 51-ball 62, powering the Kiwis to a facile win.

Shortly after his retirement, Ian Smith turned to commentary, splitting his work between cricket and rugby.

By Deivarayan Muthu