Marnus Labuschagne
The three-match series is level at 1-1, making the final Test crucial for both teams. Australia won the opening match in Durban by 214 runs, but South Africa bounced back in Gqeberha with an innings-and-31-run victory.
Marnus Labuschagne extended his unwanted record on Wednesday, going 48 Test innings without a century as Australia reached 90/2 at lunch on Day 2 of the decisive third Test against South Africa at Newlands. His ongoing drought is now the longest among Australian top-four batters, with his last Test hundred coming in July 2023. Australia reached 90 for two at lunch on Day 2 of the decisive third Test against South Africa on Wednesday, after spinner Simon Harmer took two wickets in his first over. Australia are still 239 runs behind South Africa’s first-innings total of 329, with eight wickets remaining. Matt Renshaw remained unbeaten on 27, while Cameron Green was on 17 at the break. Renshaw and Travis Head added 58 runs for the opening stand before Harmer changed the game with two quick strikes. Head was bowled for 41 after chopping the ball onto his stumps while playing off the back foot. Five balls later, Marnus Labuschagne was caught at slip by Aiden Markram for a duck, leaving Australia struggling at 58-2. He has now gone 48 innings without a century, having last scored a hundred in July 2023. He last opened in Test cricket in 2018, also against South Africa in Johannesburg. Join conversation Share your thoughts in the comments Be respectful · TOI community guidelines Renshaw and Green added 32 runs in nine overs to steady Australia before lunch. With South Africa having posted 329 in their first innings, Australia face an important challenge in the remaining sessions.
The pair will look to rebuild Australia’s innings in the afternoon session. Australia made a steady start, reaching the first drinks break without losing a wicket. Labuschagne’s dismissal extended his disappointing run in Test cricket. This is the longest century drought for an Australian batter in the top four. Renshaw, who was promoted to open after Nic Maddinson was dropped following poor performances in the first two Tests, showed patience at the crease. The winner of the Newlands Test will claim the top spot in the Test world rankings, currently held by Australia. Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.