Dominant Australia ride on skipper Steve Smith's incredible success in Test cricket

New Delhi: Australia are deserved World No. 1 team in Test cricket, and it is likely that the Steve Smith-led side will continue their dominance in the longest format of the game for a long time.

The Aussies sealed an emphatic 2-0 series victory against New Zealand on Wednesday, to sum up a great season in Test cricket. And when it mattered once again, skipper Smith delivered the goods with a starry display at the Hagley Oval, Christchurch.

Smith said to Reuters after the game, that that the challenge for his side is now to extend the gap at the top.

"I guess the challenge for this group now is to extend that gap and try and play some very good cricket home and away," said the skipper.

The Aussie skipper is by far the best Test batsman in the modern era. His consistency in Test cricket has been a notable fact, which in turn has helped his side to gain control in the format.

Smith struck a brilliant 138 runs in the first innings and followed it up with a fiery innings of 53*, as his side needed a paltry 201 to win. Smith has been a supreme commander who is getting better with every opportunity he gets in Test cricket.

Brendon McCullum's 145 runs in the first innings was the only major highlight for the hosts, who otherwise looked toothless against the Aussies.

Despite the absence of Mitchell Starc and Peter Siddle, their replacements came good in the series with Jackson Bird leading the way. Just like the ODIs, Australia's new faces have continued to deliver in an emphatic manner, within a collective unit.

Smith has ensured to galvanize his troops, who have looked hungry for success consistently, with his leadership qualities.

Earlier, Australia came from two big home Test series wins against New Zealand and West Indies and the confidence was evident from the way the team played in these two matches against the Kiwis.

Smith has looked like a person who knows what he wants from his players and has clarified that with ease. It looks like a happy camp to be in.

Smith also found himself finishing atop in the Test runs tally in 2015.