SA Lower-Order Fightback Keeps Durban Test in Balance
South Africa's lower order rescues them from follow-on threat as Australia leads by 139 runs after Day 3 in Durban.
The opening Test of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 in Durban turned into a high-stakes thriller on the third day, as South Africa’s lower order mounted a spirited resistance to stave off a massive deficit against Australia.
South Africa's Early Struggles and Smith's Brilliance
South Africa began the third day under immense pressure, trailing by 363 runs after Matt Renshaw’s monumental 190-run innings had propelled Australia to a commanding 390. The Proteas started poorly, reaching 27/1, but the momentum shifted slightly when Aiden Markram and David Bedingham began rebuilding the innings with a steady approach.
The partnership, which added 84 runs, was eventually broken by the combined efforts of Renshaw and Mitchell Starc, with Markram falling for 37. However, the day's real highlight came from Steve Smith, who proved why he is considered one of the best slip catchers in the world. Smith’s exceptional reflexes were on full display as he claimed a sharp catch to dismiss captain Temba Bavuma for just three runs, and followed it up with a stunning effort to remove Bedingham (49) shortly after.
With the hosts reeling at 99/4, Australia’s captain Pat Cummins struck twice in consecutive overs to dismiss Wiaan Mulder and Tristan Stubbs, leaving South Africa in a dire position at 155/6. At that stage, the Proteas were still 35 runs away from avoiding the follow-on.
Lower-Order Resilience and Australia's Response
Just when it seemed an innings defeat was imminent, the South African lower order refused to surrender. A series of valuable contributions from Marco Jansen (26), Simon Harmer (35), Keshav Maharaj (34), and Anrich Nortje (16) helped the hosts recover to 284 all out. This gritty fightback limited Australia's first-innings lead to 106 runs.
The Australian bowling attack remained lethal throughout the innings. Pat Cummins led the charge with 3/54, supported by Josh Hazlewood (2/54), Nathan Lyon (2/58), and Mitchell Starc (2/63).
Australia’s second innings began with intent, but the day ended abruptly due to bad light. After 5.4 overs, the umpires called for stumps with Nic Maddinson (17) and Travis Head (10) at the crease. Australia currently holds a lead of 139 runs, leaving the outcome of this Test battle hanging in the balance.