Australia captain Pat Cummins delivered an inspiring performance with the ball on Sunday as the hosts beat South Africa within the first two days in the first Test of the three-match series at Brisbane’s Gabba. Cummins, having taken two wickets in the first innings, ended the match tally of 7/77. This was only the second time a test match in Australia had ended within the first two days. Amazingly, South Africa were on the receiving end both times, having lost a Test by an innings and 72 runs in Melbourne in 1932. In 1932, South Africa had totaled 36 and 45, while Australia batted only once and scored 153.
After Australia took a 66-run lead in the first innings, South Africa had to hit well in their second innings at the Gabba.
However, Australia’s green surface and strong bowling attack put pressure on the Proteas batsman from the start.
Dean Elgar (2), Rassie van der Dussen (0) and Sarel Erwee (3) were all back in the locker room with only five on the board.
Khaya Zondo and Temba Bavuma (29) tried to battle it out, with the former remaining undefeated at 36.
Cummins, who had previously removed openers Dean Elgar and Sarel Erwee, then ripped through South Africa’s tail to give Australia a modest target of 34.
In reply, Australia lost four wickets, but South Africa gave 19 extra runs.
“Another 60 runs and we would have been in the game. Pretty snappy wicket, bowlers licking their lips,” said South African skipper Dean Elgar.
“I don’t think we can prepare better. The circumstances were not favorable for the batters.”
(with AFP inputs)
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