MotoGP: Bradley Smith delighted with 'special' first podium finish

Former Moto2 rider Bradley Smith is currently racing in his second season in MotoGP for Yamaha

British rider Bradley Smith is aiming for a top-six Championship finish after securing his first ever podium finish in MotoGP on Sunday.

Oxford-born Smith, 23, finished third in Australia after fellow Briton Cal Crutchlow crashed from second place on the final lap, as Valentino Rossi won.

"I didn't see that crash, so I didn't know which position I was," said Smith.

"I came across the line, saw 'third' or 'Smith' and I thought something was wrong with the screen."

Smith continued: "Then I started making some weird noises inside my helmet. It's a special, special moment for me."

"It was a strange race. I tried to push at the beginning but was far too aggressive.

"I had lots of big moments and nearly crashed three or four times in the opening two laps, so I had to take it down a peg or two."

Smith now lies eighth overall in the world standings, with two rounds to go - in Malaysia and Valencia - and has his sights set on improving that position.

"We've closed in on the top six in the Championship - that can be our target for the remaining two races," he said.