Australia are within six wickets of victory in the first Test against South Africa after a strong fourth day at Kingsmead in Durban.
The Australians declared their second innings at 6-314, setting South Africa a target of 421 runs to win. The hosts finished day four at 4-102, leaving them needing another 319 runs on the final day.
Matt Renshaw continued his outstanding match with the bat, scoring 82 runs from 99 balls in Australia’s second innings.
His performance followed a career best 190 in the first innings, when he helped Australia recover from 6-124 to post 390 all out.
Renshaw also claimed his maiden Test wicket, dismissing South African captain Temba Bavuma for one run as Australia strengthened its position.
Australian captain Pat Cummins provided a late burst of scoring, finishing unbeaten on 32 from just 12 balls, including four sixes.
Beau Webster supported him with an unbeaten 39 as the pair added valuable runs before Cummins declared the innings.
Australia’s declaration left South Africa facing a challenging fourth innings target of 421.
South Africa face a difficult final day
Josh Hazlewood took two wickets in South Africa’s second innings, while Cummins and Renshaw claimed one each.
Aiden Markram remained unbeaten on 45 at stumps, but South Africa had lost four wickets and still needed 319 runs to win.
Australia’s push for victory was complicated by a head knock to vice captain Steve Smith, who did not return to the field after the tea break. His condition was to be assessed as a precaution.
The final day’s play will determine whether Australia can secure victory in Durban or South Africa can produce a recovery.
Australia entered the final day in a strong position, needing six more wickets to win the opening match of the three Test series.
Sports Rewind Media will follow the result and provide updates as the match concludes.
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