Adam Gilchrist's theory on Steve Smith's 'extended glare' celebration after 33rd Test century

When Steve Smith broke his 17-month drought for a century, there was a loud cry as he ran down the wicket at the Gabba.

His last unbeaten ton one had come in June 2023 at Lord's against England when he scored 110.

From there, it's been a lean run and speculation about whether the champion batter was coming to the end.

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Maybe that's why his celebration against India had a touch more passion than usual.

There was the raise of the bat and helmet from Smith, with the former pointed towards his teammates.

Then came a glare towards the box. It was one that could be interpreted in many ways but maybe a nod to his teammates who have supported him as the doubters came knocking.

Maybe a look of 'I've still got it'.

Either way, it was noted by the experts.

Adam Gilchrist described it as an "extended glare" after his long wait for a ton.

"The symbolism of that celebration, it was subdued, but wasn't over the top by any stretch," he said on Fox Cricket.

"But I just thought the way he was looking so deeply into that Australian team viewing room [was noteworthy], sharing it with those that have kept supporting him."

For Smith, there have been some significant centuries.

Possibly none more than the one he made at Edgbaston in 2019 when returning from his ball-tampering scandal suspension.

For Australian cricket legend Brett Lee, his century at the Gabba may rank above that.

"This will go down as one of his favourites I reckon ... big hundred, the situation of the game, the series but also to a lot of conjecture about his form, his age, he's come out and silenced the critics today," he said.