Australia Reaches 187-6 Against South Africa in Durban Test

Australia reached 187-6 against South Africa on the opening day of the first Test at Kingsmead in Durban, with Matt Renshaw and Pat Cummins rebuilding after the hosts took control through disciplined bowling.

According to ABC Sport, Renshaw scored 59 while Cummins made 43 before being dismissed in a 98-ball partnership. Australia passed 200 during the following session before losing further wickets.

South Africa entered the match without fast bowler Kagiso Rabada, who was ruled out because of a hamstring injury, according to cricket.com.au. Anrich Nortje returned to Test cricket after three years and joined Marco Jansen as the opening pace option.

Temba Bavuma, South Africa captain, explained the decision to leave Rabada out while hoping he could return for the second Test.

"It was not an easy one." said Temba Bavuma, South Africa captain.

Bavuma said the team selected a cautious approach with Rabada's recovery, while South Africa chose Nortje because of his pace and recent training performances.

"I think we did go the conservative route to give him a couple of extra days to get as close as he can be to 100 per cent fitness. As soon as he gets the green light, we expect him to to be within that starting lineup." said Temba Bavuma, South Africa captain.

The South African captain also highlighted Nortje's return after injuries had kept him away from Test cricket since March 2023.

"It's hard to ignore his X-factor." said Temba Bavuma, South Africa captain.

Nortje was selected ahead of other pace options after impressing in training, with Bavuma pointing to his ability to generate extreme speed.

"There's not many guys around who are bowling 150(kph) plus, and I think as a batter, that's not something that I would look forward to." said Temba Bavuma, South Africa captain.

The series is Australia's first full tour of South Africa since 2018 and follows South Africa's victory over Australia in the 2025 World Test Championship final at Lord's, according to the Guardian.

South Africa named a side featuring nine players from that championship final, while Australia returned with Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon among its experienced players.

The three-Test series continues at St George's Park in Gqeberha from October 18 before moving to Newlands in Cape Town from October 27.