Pat Cummins blames Australian batting after Cape Town defeat hands series to South Africa

Australian captain Pat Cummins placed the blame on his team's batting lineup following a 176-run defeat to South Africa in the third Test at Newlands in Cape Town on October 31, 2026. The defeat sealed a 2-1 series victory for the hosts as Australia was bowled out for 111 on Day 5 while chasing a target of 288. Cummins criticized poor decision-making during the final innings collapse.

South Africa's Simon Harmer took 6 for 16, while Kagiso Rabada contributed 3 for 25 to dismantle the top order. The series defeat marked Australia's second consecutive loss, dropping them from the top spot to third in the World Test Championship standings ahead of an upcoming home series against New Zealand.