Australia close on win against South Africa

What the report says

Australia moved into a strong position to win the first Test against South Africa in Durban, according to BBC Africa’s report, after building a large lead and then reducing the home side to 102-4 by the close on day four. South Africa still needed 319 runs on the final day to reach an unlikely target of 421, with six wickets in hand.

The match has been shaped by Matt Renshaw, whose comeback from a three-year absence continued to stand out. After scoring 190 in Australia’s first innings, he made 89 in the second before contributing with the ball as a part-time off-spinner, dismissing South Africa captain Temba Bavuma for his first Test wicket. Australia captain Pat Cummins also struck late, removing Tristan Stubbs after setting him up with short deliveries.

Aiden Markram was South Africa’s main resistance at the crease, finishing unbeaten on 45 and sharing a useful stand with David Bedingham before the innings slowed. BBC Africa noted that South Africa have been difficult to beat under Bavuma, including their World Test Championship final win over Australia earlier in 2025. The result in Durban is important because it could give Australia an early series lead and end South Africa’s long unbeaten run under their current captain.