Rusty or something more? South Africa’s concern after Australia loss

Australia defeated South Africa by 214 runs in the first Test in Durban, ending the Proteas' 12-match unbeaten run and taking a 1-0 series lead. Josh Hazlewood took a career-best 6-49 in the final innings to dismiss South Africa for 206, despite a resilient 237-ball resistance from Aiden Markram, who scored 75 runs.

Proteas coach Shukri Conrad expressed concern over the performance, noting that several batters failed to capitalize on starts against Australia's high-caliber bowling attack. Matthew Henry of BBC Sport highlighted questions surrounding the Proteas' batting depth against top-tier opposition, while noting bright spots in Anrich Nortje's fiery return to Test cricket and David Bedingham's form.