Bavuma, Jansen lead South Africa fightback in second test

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma and all-rounder Marco Jansen orchestrated a remarkable comeback on the third day of the second test at St George's Park. Bavuma finished the session unbeaten on 76 not out after a gritty display, while Jansen hit a crucial 106 off 71 balls in a record-breaking seventh-wicket partnership. This partnership, off 133 balls, surpassed the previous South African record of 89 runs for the seventh wicket in a test against England in 1896 at St George's Park.

The match had been in a precarious position after South Africa resumed on 97-5 after only 43 overs on the two rain-affected opening days, with only Bavuma on 41 and Wiaan Mulder on two. The only wicket to fall on Tuesday was that of Mulder, who was bowled behind the leg to slip Matt Renshaw after ducking into a short-pitched delivery from Mitchell Starc.

Starc, reaching his 450th test wicket, was only dismissed after a review. Australia had to play without seamer Josh Hazlewood during the first session due to illness, and he will return after lunch with the new ball due eight overs into the afternoon session.