Australia took control of the first Test against South Africa on Day 3 on Saturday as the hosts were able to put the hosts under pressure with a strong bowling display and some good fielding. South Africa were bowled out for 284 in their first innings, and Australia took a 106-run lead.
Australia then reached 33 without losing a wicket in their second innings before bad light interrupted play. With a 139-run lead heading into Day 4, Australia is in a strong position. South Africa need an effort to get back in the game.
South Africa Falls Short with the Bat
South Africa showed some resistance but failed to build a big total. David Bedingham scored 49 runs, but the home side lost wickets at regular intervals.
Australia’s bowlers kept the pressure on and stopped South Africa from building long partnerships. Pat Cummins took three wickets, while Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon took two wickets each.
South Africa were eventually dismissed for 284, 106 runs behind Australia's first-innings score of 390.
Steve Smith Makes a Difference in the Field
Steve Smith was one of Australia's key performers on Day 3. His four catches helped Australia break important partnerships and put South Africa under pressure.
Australia also benefited from disciplined bowling and good teamwork. The visitors made sure South Africa could not take over the innings.
As captain, Pat Cummins used his bowlers in an excellent manner and kept the pressure on the batters
Three absolute blinders from Steve Smith! https://t.co/gV2qoPojw2
— Lakshay (@im_lakshayy) October 11, 2026
Australia Increase Their Lead
Australia began their second innings with a 106-run lead. They reached 33 without loss before bad light forced the players off the field.
The unbeaten start gave Australia another advantage and their total lead over the side is now 139 runs. They also have ten wickets left in and they are in an excellent position now.
Australia will now look to score more runs on Day 4 and set a tough target for South Africa.
Will South Africa ever make a comeback?
South Africa still have a chance to fight back, but they need to improve with bat and ball.
Their bowlers need to take early wickets and stop Australia’s openers from building a big partnership. If Australia extend their lead beyond 250 or 300 runs, South Africa could have a tough chase in the final innings.
The home side’s batters will also have to show patience and not lose wickets just as fast. A strong start with the ball could give them some hope of saving the match.
What to Expect on Day 4
Australia will try to make a bigger lead and put South Africa under further pressure. South Africa, however, will need early wickets to keep the game alive.
Day 3 clearly belonged to Australia but the match is not over yet. South Africa will need to show a much better performance to turn things around. The first session on Day 4 will be pivotal in determining if the hosts can make a comeback or Australia move closer to victory.
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