Starc claims six wickets as Australia bowl South Africa out for 329 on Day One
Mitchell Starc took six wickets for 72 runs, helping Australia dismiss South Africa for 329 in the first Test of the series.
Australia bowled South Africa out for 329 runs on the first day of the third Test, with fast bowler Mitchell Starc finishing with figures of 16.3 overs, two maidens, 72 runs and six wickets. The wickets came in bursts, including a spell of four wickets in six deliveries after the second new ball was taken.
South Africa’s top order collapsed early, falling from 203/1 to 232/6 before Starc’s spell. The lower order added modest runs, with David Bedingham reaching a half-century before being dismissed by Starc. Australia’s pace attack, featuring Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon and Josh Hazlewood, rotated frequently to maintain pressure.
“I’m just brainstorming here,” said former Australia captain Paul O’Neill, questioning whether the series could be extended to five Tests in the future.
The match featured several notable partnerships for South Africa, including a 44-run stand for the seventh wicket between Marco Jansen and Rassie van der Dussen, but the Australian bowlers ultimately prevailed.
Australia’s fielding and bowling changes, including the early use of the second new ball, were highlighted by commentators as key factors in the day’s outcome.