South Africa Sets 282-Run Target Against Australia in WTC Clash

South Africa dismissed Australia for 207 in their second innings at Lord’s Cricket Ground, establishing a chase of 282 runs for the Australians in their quest for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023–25 title.

Australia’s Second Innings Summary

Australia, resuming the third day at 144/8, faced an early setback when Nathan Lyon was adjudged LBW off Kagiso Rabada’s bowling, adding only two runs to his overnight score.

However, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood forged a significant last-wicket partnership, accumulating crucial runs that added to South Africa’s frustrations. Their collaboration helped propel the score beyond 200, enhancing Australia’s lead.

Key Contributions
  • Starc exhibited fine form with the bat, achieving his 11th Test half-century.
  • Starc and Hazlewood combined for a 50-run partnership for the final wicket.

The innings concluded when Aiden Markram claimed his first Test wicket, removing Hazlewood for 17.

South Africa’s Bowling Performance

Kagiso Rabada led the South African bowling attack, securing four wickets. Lungi Ngidi took three wickets, supported by one wicket each from Markram, Marco Jansen, and Wiaan Mulder.

Australia’s Turbulent Second Day

Previously, Australia underwent a challenging second day, declining from 32/2 to 73/7 due to South Africa’s effective pace attack.

Despite hopes of recovery from Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne, wickets continued to fall, resulting in a loss of five wickets for 41 runs.

Alex Carey and Mitchell Starc later contributed a 61-run partnership. Carey scored a team-high 43 from 50 deliveries, while Starc remained unbeaten on 16, accompanied by Nathan Lyon (1*).

First Innings Recap

Australia was earlier bowled out for 212 in their first innings. Beau Webster scored a quick 72 off 92 balls, while Steve Smith added a steady 62 off 112 balls.

Kagiso Rabada spearheaded the bowling attack with a five-wicket haul in 15.4 overs, and Marco Jansen secured three wickets.

South Africa’s First Innings

In response, South Africa posted 138 in 57.1 overs in their first innings, with David Bedingham scoring 45 runs.

Australian captain Pat Cummins delivered an impressive performance, taking six wickets, while Starc claimed two, ensuring Australia gained a vital first-innings advantage.