Cummins helps Australia take control against South Africa

Pat Cummins took 3-54 as Australia established a dominant 139-run overall lead against South Africa on day three of the first Test in Durban. A disciplined Australian bowling attack dismissed the hosts for 284 in their first innings, with Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon each claiming two wickets. Australia reached 33-0 in their second innings before play was halted early due to bad light.

South Africa struggled early, slipping to 197-8 despite David Bedingham top-scoring with 49, before a late 52-run stand between Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer helped avoid further damage. Australia had previously posted 390 in their first innings thanks to a career-best 190 from Matt Renshaw.