Australia builds lead against South Africa in first test, 174-4 at lunch on day four

DURBAN, South Africa (AP) — Australia strengthened its position in its second innings during the first cricket test against South Africa, reaching 174-4 for 36 overs at lunch on day four. The visitors scored at a brisk rate of nearly 4.65 runs per over in the morning session, extending their overall lead to 280 runs following their first innings' lead of 106 runs.

Matt Renshaw contributed 190 runs in the first innings as Australia amassed 390 runs in total. However, South Africa was dismissed for 284 in their reply. At the lunch interval, Renshaw was still not out on 32 with Alex Carey (5) alongside him. Australia resumed play on the fourth morning after bad light halted proceedings on day three at 33-0.

They made a rapid start, scoring 78 runs in the first hour, with Nic Maddinson (48 off 38 balls, including two sixes and six fours) and Travis Head (11) driving the innings forward. Despite Head's early exit, the openers had added 43 runs. Maddinson was dismissed in the 11th over by Anrich Nortje. Steve Smith (27) and Marnus Labuschagne (37) accelerated the scoring, putting on 53 runs for the third wicket.

Smith contributed a six and three fours before being bowled by off spinner Simon Harmer. Renshaw and Labuschagne added a quick 32 runs for the fourth wicket, further widening Australia's lead.