Renshaw's twin centuries set up Australia’s likely win over South Africa in Durban
Matt Renshaw scored 82 and 89 in the first two innings as Australia moved toward a dominant victory against South Africa in the first Test of the series in Durban.
Australia are poised to secure a commanding win in the first Test against South Africa in Durban, with Matt Renshaw delivering back-to-back half-centuries after returning to the side following a three-year hiatus. Renshaw made 82 in the first innings and followed it with 89, enabling Australia to declare at 314-6. He also claimed his first Test wicket, dismissing captain Temba Bavuma with his part-time off-spin late in the day.
Captain Pat Cummins then set up a dismissal of Tristan Stubbs, leaving South Africa at 102-4 at stumps. The hosts require 319 runs to win, with a world-record target of 421 for a victory, and will need to bat out the final day to force a draw.
South Africa, unbeaten under Bavuma’s captaincy, have won 11 and drawn one of their Tests, including a run to the 2025 World Test Championship final where they defeated Australia at Lord's. Opener Aiden Markram top-scored with an unbeaten 45 from 115 balls, continuing his strong record in fourth-innings chases.
Australia’s fielding was impacted when former captain Steve Smith left the field after being struck on the helmet by an Anrich Nortje bouncer. Despite this, the team maintained pressure, with Josh Hazlewood taking two wickets.
The outcome may also be influenced by potential bad-light conditions on the final day, which could affect Australia’s decision to bat until tea.