SA vs AUS: Matt Renshaw produced a magnificent 190 to help Australia recover from a precarious position and post 390 all out before South Africa finished Day 2 of the first Test at 27/1, trailing by 363 runs at Kingsmead, Durban.
Resuming at 187/6, Australia were in danger of surrendering their advantage after South Africa’s pace attack had made early inroads on the opening day. However, Renshaw stood firm, displaying remarkable patience and composure to frustrate the hosts and turn the contest decisively in Australia’s favour.
Mitchell Starc fell early for six, but Renshaw continued to anchor the innings with support from the lower order. Pat Cummins contributed a valuable 43, while Nathan Lyon added 27 in a crucial ninth-wicket partnership that shifted the momentum towards the visitors.
Renshaw-Lyon stand changed the game
Renshaw and Lyon combined for a significant 134-run stand for the ninth wicket, rescuing Australia from 230/8 and extending the innings deep into the second day. Renshaw mixed disciplined defence with well-timed strokes, bringing up his second Test century and moving towards a memorable double hundred.
Lyon eventually fell leg-before-wicket to Marco Jansen for 27, while Renshaw’s outstanding knock ended at 190 when he was caught off Simon Harmer. Australia were eventually bowled out for 390, leaving South Africa with a challenging task against a formidable bowling attack.
The hosts’ reply began poorly as Ryan Rickelton was dismissed for a duck, caught by Beau Webster off Josh Hazlewood. Aiden Markram and David Bedingham survived the remaining overs, but deteriorating light brought an early end to the day’s play.
South Africa will need a substantial partnership on Day 3 to reduce the deficit, while Australia will look to exploit the conditions and strengthen their grip on the match.
Brief scores: Australia 390 all-out in 137.2 overs (Matt Renshaw 190, Pat Cummins 43; Wiaan Mulder 4-68, Marco Jansen 3-68) lead South Africa 27/1 in 8.4 overs (Aiden Markram 15*; Josh Hazlewood 1-9) by 363 runs.
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