Bavuma’s and Jansen’s 106-run stand sparks South Africa fightback vs Australia

South Africa's fightback against Australia took a significant turn on the third day of the second Test, thanks to a century partnership between Temba Bavuma and Marco Jansen. The unbeaten 106-run stand, which lasted 22 overs, not only lifted South Africa but also broke the previous seventh-wicket record at St. George's Park, held since 1896.

At stumps on the second day, South Africa had been struggling at 97-5, and 110-6. By lunch on the third day, they had steadied the ship at 216-6, with Bavuma on 76 and Jansen on 72. The partnership not only added 106 runs but also set the tone for the remainder of the session, providing a much-needed momentum boost.

Australia's new ball would be available in eight overs, with seamer Josh Hazlewood needing to rejoin the action soon after lunch. Bavuma and Jansen's aggressive approach was put to the test when new ball arrival Josh Hazlewood claimed his 450th Test wicket. Despite Starc's wicket, Jansen responded with three boundaries and two more, along with Scott Boland, to add 21 runs off just 12 balls.

Jansen's aggressive innings, coupled with Bavuma's steady hand, helped South Africa negotiate the remainder of the session without any further losses. By the end of the day, the Proteas had crossed the 200-run mark in just 65.4 overs, a feat that seemed increasingly challenging earlier in the morning. Bavuma put on 76 not out, while Jansen added 72 runs off 71 balls.