Australia beat South Africa by 214 runs in first Test

Australia beat South Africa by 214 runs in the first Test at Kingsmead in Durban, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. South Africa, chasing 421, were bowled out for 206 in their second innings. The victory also kept Australia atop the World Test Championship table, while South Africa moved to third. Josh Hazlewood led Australia’s attack, taking six wickets for 49 runs in the final innings. South Africa had reached the fifth day with a remaining chance to chase the target, but Hazlewood broke through after the hosts had begun the day without losing a wicket. Aiden Markram’s 75 was the top score in the chase, while David Bedingham made 46. The wickets continued to fall, and South Africa were dismissed before reaching the target. Matt Renshaw’s batting had given Australia control of the match. He scored 190 in the first innings and 82 in the second, the two highest individual scores in the game, and also took two wickets in South Africa’s second innings. Australia made 390 in their first innings, then declared at 314 for six in the second, setting the hosts a target of 421. South Africa replied with 284 in their first innings, leaving Australia with a 106-run lead.