SA vs AUS, 3rd Test, Day 2: Inglis, Carey put Australia in the driver’s seat

Results in brief: Australia (330/4) lead South Africa (329) by one run at stumps on Day 2

Josh Inglis scored an unbeaten 85 while Alex Carey made 51 as Australia reached 330 for four at stumps on Day 2 of the third Test against South Africa at Newlands, taking a slender one-run lead on Wednesday.

Australia’s revamped batting order responded well after being bowled out for 329 on day one in South Africa. A 126-run partnership between Matt Renshaw and Cameron Green leveled the innings before Inglis and Carey added an unbeaten 145 runs for the fifth wicket to put the visitors in a strong position.

South Africa vs Australia 3rd Test: Day 2 from Cape Town

Inglis, who came into the team after Steve Smith was ruled out due to injury, remained unbeaten on 85 off 111 balls. Carey provided solid support, hitting 51 not out as Australia finished the day with six wickets in hand and an opportunity to build a significant lead on Day 3.

The Newlands surface offered better batting conditions on the second day, leaving South Africa’s bowlers with few opportunities to make regular inroads. Australia made the most of the conditions, with contributions coming from almost everyone in the top order.

Renshaw and Travis Head gave Australia a flying start, putting on 58 runs for the opening wicket. Head made 41 before Simon Harmer struck with his first ball of the match, the bat clipping the stumps on a back foot play.

Harmer then dismissed Marnus Labuschagne for a duck, increasing the pressure on the Australian No.3 after a long lean run with the bat. Labuschagne edged an Aiden Markram delivery at slip to leave Australia at a shaky point in the innings.

Renshaw and Green responded with a decisive 126-run stand for the third wicket. Renshaw scored 74 while Green contributed 65 to help Australia recover and take control of the contest. Their partnership ended when Marco Jansen removed both batters in quick succession. Renshaw was caught behind by Ryan Rickelton while Green edged one Harmer at slip.

South Africa had opportunities to put Australia under pressure but Inglis and Carey ensured there was no late collapse. Their unbroken attitude overpowered Australia in the hosts’ first innings, leaving the visitors a one-run lead at the end.

Australia’s batting has faced scrutiny in recent months and the performances of Green and Renshaw will be encouraging for a side in transition. Inglis, meanwhile, made an early statement with a composed innings after earning his place in the side as Smith’s replacement.

The series is level at 1-1, with Australia winning the first Test by 214 runs in Durban before South Africa responded with an innings and 31-run victory in Gqeberha. The deciding Test has added significance, with the winner set to take the No.1 Test ranking currently held by Australia.

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