Matt Renshaw’s 82 and Maiden Test Wicket Put Australia on Brink of Victory

Matt Renshaw starred with both bat and ball as Australia moved closer to victory on day four of the first Test against South Africa at Kingsmead on Monday.

Renshaw followed his first-innings 190 with an aggressive 82 off 99 balls, helping Australia declare at 314/6 and set South Africa a daunting target of 421. The hosts reached 102/4 at stumps, needing another 319 runs with six wickets remaining.

Josh Hazlewood struck twice before Renshaw claimed his maiden Test wicket, dismissing captain Temba Bavuma. Pat Cummins then removed Tristan Stubbs, leaving South Africa facing a difficult final day. Anrich Nortje impressed with the ball, taking two wickets, including Alex Carey, while also striking Steve Smith on the helmet.

Keshav Maharaj dismissed Renshaw with a remarkable return catch after the Australian batter threatened a second century of the match. Cummins added an unbeaten 32 off just 12 balls, including four sixes, before declaring.

South Africa’s Aiden Markram and David Bedingham remained unbeaten on 45 and 46 respectively, keeping their team’s hopes alive.