Josh Inglis completed a spectacular return to Test cricket by scoring his second career century, helping Australia stretch their first-innings lead over South Africa on the third morning of the series-deciding third Test at Newlands. Australia reached the lunch interval in a strong position at 411 for 8, holding an 82-run lead over South Africa’s first-innings total of 329, with Cooper Connolly remaining unbeaten on 20.
Inglis, stepping into the side as a replacement for the injured Steven Smith, crafted a vital knock of 102 runs from 135 deliveries. He combined with Alex Carey, who contributed 80 runs, to anchor a crucial fifth-wicket partnership worth 185 runs. Despite a spirited fightback spearheaded by offspinner Simon Harmer, who claimed four wickets, Australia managed to extend their advantage as the match progressed.
Match Situation at Newlands
- Australia reached 411 for 8 at lunch on Day 3, establishing a lead of 82 runs.
- Josh Inglis scored 102 off 135 balls, marking his second Test century.
- Alex Carey chipped in with 80 runs before falling to Simon Harmer.
- Simon Harmer led the South African bowling attack with figures of 4 for 104 off 37 overs.
Bowling Efforts and Breakthroughs
South Africa desperately sought early breakthroughs with the second new ball on the third morning, but Inglis and Carey batted with immense composure to frustrate the home seamers. Kagiso Rabada, returning to the attack after battling stomach cramps on the previous day, posed constant questions and eventually dismissed Pat Cummins lbw via DRS review. However, missed chances in the field hampered the Proteas’ progress as Harmer dropped an edge off Carey early in the session. Harmer eventually broke the stubborn fifth-wicket partnership by trapping Inglis, before removing Carey with a delivery safely pouched at slip by Aiden Markram. Gerald Coetzee chipped in with the dismissal of Mitchell Starc as South Africa worked through the lower order.
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