Australia Triumphs Over South Africa in First Test by 214 Runs

In a thrilling first Test at Kingsmead, Australia triumphed over South Africa by 214 runs, taking a 1-0 lead in the ICC World Test Championship series. Matt Renshaw's stellar performance, scoring 190 and 82, alongside Josh Hazlewood's six-wicket haul, secured the victory. South Africa struggled in their chase, bowled out for 206, marking their first home defeat since November 2024. The second Test is set to begin in Gqeberha on October 18, promising more exciting cricket ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 13, 2026, 19:06 IST

Australia Takes Lead in ICC World Test Championship

On Monday, Australia secured a convincing victory against South Africa by 214 runs in the first Test held at Kingsmead. This win, marked by Matt Renshaw's impressive all-round performance and Josh Hazlewood's six-wicket haul on the final day, gives Australia a 1-0 lead in the three-match ICC World Test Championship series.

Hazlewood's Outstanding Performance

Facing a challenging target of 421 runs, South Africa was bowled out for 206 in their second innings. Hazlewood achieved career-best figures of 6/49, sealing the match for Australia. Starting the final day at 102/4, South Africa needed 319 runs to win, with Aiden Markram and Wiaan Mulder aiming to extend their innings. Markram held his ground for 237 balls, scoring 75 runs, while Mulder added 29 before being dismissed by Hazlewood just before lunch. After the break, Australia tightened their grip, with Renshaw taking the wicket of Kyle Verreynne for just one run. Hazlewood then quickly removed Marco Jansen for 35 and Simon Harmer for a duck. Mitchell Starc ended Markram's resilient innings, while Hazlewood finished off the tail by dismissing Anrich Nortje, who top-edged a short delivery to Nathan Lyon.

Renshaw Shines as Player of the Match

Renshaw was awarded Player of the Match for his remarkable contributions, scoring 190 in the first innings and 82 in the second, along with significant bowling efforts.

Australia's Dominant Batting Display

Australia's victory was built on a solid batting performance throughout both innings. Renshaw's 190 helped the team reach 390 in their first innings, while South Africa managed 284, with Markram and David Bedingham contributing to a 106-run deficit. In their second innings, Australia declared at 314/6, bolstered by half-centuries from Renshaw and Nic Maddinson, along with late runs from Pat Cummins and Beau Webster. South Africa faced an early setback on the fourth evening, with Hazlewood and part-time bowler Renshaw reducing them to 102/4 at stumps. Despite Markram's determined effort, the hosts could not recover on the final day.

Impact on Records and World Test Championship Standings

This defeat marked South Africa's first loss at home after four consecutive Test victories since November 2024. It was also their first defeat under captain Temba Bavuma, who had led the team in 12 Tests prior to this match. Australia, on the other hand, celebrated their fourth consecutive Test win at Kingsmead since 2006, enhancing their position in the World Test Championship standings. South Africa dropped to third place, while New Zealand moved up to second.

Looking Ahead

The second Test between Australia and South Africa is set to commence in Gqeberha on October 18, with the third Test scheduled to take place in Cape Town from October 27 to 31.