Australia need six wickets on final day to win first test against SA
SA were set 421 runs to win after Australia declared their second innings on 314-6.
In the final day of the first Test between Australia and South Africa, Australia's Matt Renshaw played a crucial role, leaving his team needing just six wickets to secure a win. Declared at 314-6 in their second innings, South Africa started their chase with notable contributions from Ryan Rickelton, David Bedingham, captain Temba Bavuma, and Tristan Stubbs, all of whom were dismissed before stumps.
Renshaw, who had a remarkable batting performance in the first innings with 190 runs, also claimed his first test wicket on Tuesday, adding to his impressive form. Australia's Aiden Markram (45 not out) and Wiaan Mulder (5 not out) will resume on the final morning, hoping to lead a determined rearguard action if the home side are to avoid defeat.
Veteran spinner Keshav Maharaj praised Aiden Markram's performance, highlighting it as a positive sign for the remainder of the match. Rickelton's early dismissal, coming off just three balls in the first innings and scoring two runs in the second, may signal a shift in his position in the South African team. Bedingham contributed 46 runs, partnering with Markram for 66 runs before being dismissed lbw by Hazlewood, ending their 66-run partnership.
Bavuma made a single run, while Stubbs also made an effort, edging a thick delivery to Pat Cummins, showcasing the poor shot selection that has affected South Africa's batting. Despite the challenges, Australia's Beau Webster expressed optimism, stating that they "still have a job to do tomorrow but given ourselves a great chance."
Written by urgent.news from SABC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.