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Starc’s six-wicket haul swings Australia to 100-run lead

By Drooid · Oct 30, 2026 · How we work

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Summary

Josh Inglis scored 102, giving Australia a 100-run first-innings lead in the third Test at Newlands.
Mitchell Starc took six wickets for 72 runs on day one, shifting momentum to Australia.
Nathan Lyon claimed two wickets for 71 runs, dismissing Ackerman and captain Temba Bavuma.
South Africa were 140-4, trailing by 40 runs with six wickets remaining.

Summary

Anrich Nortje missed the Newlands decider due to a mild groin injury.
Gerald Coetzee earned his first Test recall since November 2024, replacing Nortje.
Simon Harmer was chosen over Keshav Maharaj, benching the veteran spinner for the final Test.
Pat Cummins confirmed Cameron Green’s return to the middle order after an abdominal injury recovery.
Steve Smith’s participation remained uncertain while medical staff assessed his neck injury.

Summary

Australia begins its first Test visit to Cape Town since the 2018 ball-tampering scandal.
Marnus Labuschagne arrives without a Test century for over three years, increasing selection pressure.
Nic Maddinson, recovering from testicular cancer, was dropped after a series average of 14, fueling debate.
Ricky Ponting said Labuschagne’s place is untenable after a 47-innings century drought, pressuring selectors.

History

In March 2018, during Australia’s four-Test tour of South Africa, Cameron Bancroft was caught using sandpaper, leading to 12-month bans for Steve Smith and David Warner and a nine-month ban for Bancroft. Tim Paine took over as captain and South Africa won the series 3–1, the first home victory over Australia since 1970. The fallout still shapes selection decisions in today’s Newlands Test.

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In March 2018, during Australia’s four-Test tour of South Africa, Cameron Bancroft was caught using sandpaper, leading to 12-month bans for Steve Smith and David Warner and a nine-month ban for Bancroft. Tim Paine took over as captain and South Africa won the series 3–1, the first home victory over Australia since 1970. The fallout still shapes selection decisions in today’s Newlands Test.

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