South Africa vs Australia: Matt Renshaw stars again as tourists close on statement victory
BBC • • sports
Key Points:
- Australia is in a strong position to win the first Test in Durban, with Matt Renshaw scoring 82 in the second innings and taking a crucial wicket, contributing to South Africa being 102-4 at the close.
- South Africa faces a challenging target of 319 runs to win, needing to bat out the final day with six wickets remaining to secure a draw against Australia.
- South African captain Temba Bavuma has an impressive Test record with 11 wins and one draw but was dismissed by Renshaw's part-time spin late on day four.
- Aiden Markram is key to South Africa's resistance, unbeaten on 45 and known for his strong fourth-innings batting average, but the team faces a tough task given the pitch conditions and Australia's bowling.
- Australia may be without Steve Smith for the final day after he was hit on the helmet by a bouncer, raising concerns about his availability in this critical phase.
