A defiant Steve Smith has declared he is not on the verge of retirement after batting Australia out of a hole and to a slender 12-run first-innings lead on day two of the fifth Ashes test.

With both his form and future questioned ahead of the match, Smith hit 71 at The Oval on Friday to help Australia to 295 in reply to England’s 283.

Smith’s innings was not without drama though, after England believed they had him run out by substitute fielder George Ealham on 43.

However, replays showed Jonny Bairstow had broken the stumps early and the bail did not properly dislodge in time.

Pat Cummins (36) and Todd Murphy (34) were also crucial late for the tourists, putting on 49 for the ninth wicket after a frustrating day of missed opportunities.

Keen to wear down England’s attack and build a big first-innings lead, Australia fell from 1-91 midway through the morning to 7-194.

But, as has so often been the case, Smith was able hold the innings together.

The 34-year-old then offered further relief when he confirmed retirement was not on the cards, despite claims from former England captain Michael Vaughan that he’d heard this could be Smith’s last test.

Pat Cummins (36) and Todd Murphy (34) were also crucial late for the tourists, putting on 49 for the ninth wicket after a frustrating day of missed opportunities.

Keen to wear down England’s attack and build a big first-innings lead, Australia fell from 1-91 midway through the morning to 7-194.

But, as has so often been the case, Smith was able hold the innings together.

The 34-year-old then offered further relief when he confirmed retirement was not on the cards, despite claims from former England captain Michael Vaughan that he’d heard this could be Smith’s last test.