Australia seize the advantage on day three as South Africa face a tough task in Durban

Australia strengthened their position in the first Test against South Africa after bowling the hosts out for 251 on Day 3 at Kingsmead before reaching 17 for no loss in their second innings. The visitors had a total lead of 139 runs to the stumps with two days left in the competition.

South Africa’s batting effort was marred by a series of promising starts that failed to develop into substantial individual scores. Seven batsmen passed the 25-run mark, but David Bedingham’s 49 was the highest score of the innings as Australia’s bowlers cashed in on loose runs at crucial moments.

SA vs AUS 1st Test Day 3: Update | Scorecard

Bedingham and Aiden Markram provided the hosts with their most significant partnership, adding 84 runs for the second wicket. Markram made 37 before he edged Mitchell Starc with Matt Renshaw at first slip, while Bedingham’s resistance ended when he edged a drive on the back foot and was caught by Steve Smith.

Smith’s catch was also historic, taking his Test tally to 222 and moving him ahead of England’s Joe Root, who previously held the record with 220 catches. Smith went on to take two more catches during the innings, including a crisp one-handed effort to dismiss Kyle Verreynn for 13.

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma managed just three runs before falling to Nathan Lyon. Wiaan Mulder scored 30 and Tristan Stubbs 32, but neither could turn their starts into a meaningful contribution. Marco Jansen added a brisk 26 off 20 balls as Australia continued to chip away at the lower order.

Pat Cummins led the visitors’ bowling attack with three wickets, while Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Lyon claimed two each. However, South Africa’s lower order offered some resistance, with Harmer and Maharaj combining to form a 52-run partnership for the ninth wicket. The last two wickets added 87 runs, giving the hosts a late boost after a tough day.

Australia then started their second innings before the end, Nic Maddinson immediately trying to score freely. He hit a boundary to get off the mark and finished unbeaten on 17 while his opening partner remained at the other end.

The visitors will look to build on their advantage by extending their lead quickly on Day 4, while South Africa need early wickets to prevent Australia from setting a daunting target. Despite a late resistance from the hosts, Australia remain firmly in control over the last two days.

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