Australia secured a comprehensive 214-run victory against South Africa in the
Chasing a daunting target of 421, the hosts were eventually bowled out for 206 during the second session of the final day. While Aiden Markram provided a resilient 75-run effort, the South African batting lineup ultimately succumbed to the pressure applied by the Australian bowling attack, with Hazlewood proving the primary architect of their collapse.
Hazlewood dismantles South African resistance
Resuming the final day with hopes of survival, South Africa initially looked to build a partnership through Markram and Wiaan Mulder. However, the momentum shifted decisively when Hazlewood claimed the wicket of Mulder for 29, bringing an end to a 204-ball stand. This breakthrough opened the floodgates for the Australian side.
The pressure intensified when Steve Smith secured a sharp catch in the slips to remove Kyle Verreynne, reducing the hosts to 156/6. Although Marco Jansen attempted to steady the ship alongside Markram, Hazlewood returned to the attack to dismantle the tail. He bowled Jansen with a delivery that nipped back sharply and dismissed Simon Harmer in the same over.
Mitchell Starc eventually ended Markram’s determined 237-ball stay at the crease. Hazlewood then wrapped up the proceedings by removing Anrich Nortje, finishing with career-best figures of 6/49. This performance marked the 15th time the pacer has taken five or more wickets in a Test innings.
Renshaw’s batting foundation
Australia’s path to victory was paved by
Despite a contribution of 46 from David Bedingham and Markram’s resistance, the target proved too steep. With the series result now decided by this dominant display, Australia’s clinical execution with both bat and ball proved the difference in Durban.
