Matt Renshaw stars with bat and ball in Durban as Australia chase a statement victory over South Africa.
Australia are primed to earn a statement Test victory in Durban on day four, moving close to ending South Africa,s unbeaten run under captain Temba Bavuma, according to information published by BBC.
Matt Renshaw continued his remarkable Test comeback by following his first innings 190 with 89 runs, allowing Australia to declare on 314-6 and set the Proteas a world record target of 421 runs to win.
South Africa finished day four at 102-4, needing to bat out the final day for a draw with six wickets remaining after losing crucial wickets to Renshaw and captain Pat Cummins.
Matt Renshaw masterclass in Durban Test
Renshaw, playing in his second game back after a three year absence, held the Australian innings together with exceptional strokeplay before declaring on 314-6.
Adding to his impressive performance, the 30 year old part time off spinner dismissed South African captain Temba Bavuma late in the day to claim his very first Test wicket.
Australia captain Pat Cummins then delivered a perfect tactical setup to dismiss Tristan Stubbs, leaving the hosts under immense pressure at the close of play.
Aiden Markram holds key for South Africa
The Proteas, hopes rest largely on opening batsman Aiden Markram, who batted resiliently to finish day four on 45 not out from 115 balls.
Markram previously scored a sensational 136 against Australia in the fourth innings of their World Test Championship final win at Lord,s earlier this year.
Statistics show Markram boasts a formidable fourth innings average of 45.56, though surviving the final day requires immense skill against Australia,s bowling attack.
South Africa unbeaten run under Bavuma
Before this opening match of the summer series, South Africa had won 11 and drawn one of their Tests under the captaincy of Temba Bavuma.
The current tour is part of a busy South African summer featuring matches against Bangladesh and England, making this a crucial opening fixture.
Australia have dominated large portions of the match, despite potential injury concerns over former captain Steve Smith after he was hit on the helmet by a bouncer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the target for South Africa to win the Durban Test?
South Africa need a world record 421 runs to win the first Test against Australia in Durban, or they must bat out the final day to secure a draw.
How did Matt Renshaw perform in the match?
Matt Renshaw scored 190 in the first innings and followed up with 89 runs in the second innings, later taking his first Test wicket by dismissing Temba Bavuma.
What is South Africa,s record under captain Temba Bavuma?
South Africa have won 11 and drawn one of their Test matches under the captaincy of Temba Bavuma prior to this series opener against Australia.
