Starc takes six as South Africa make strong start against Australia in Cape Town

Mitchell Starc claimed his 20th five-wicket haul in Test cricket as Australia fought back after South Africa made a dominant start on the opening day of the series decider in Cape Town.

Australia chose to field at Newlands, but the decision initially appeared to backfire as South Africa’s openers, Aiden Markram and Marques Ackerman, handled the visiting attack with composure. The pair added 140 without loss by lunch and eventually raised 158 for the first wicket in the opening Test of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle.

Ackerman looked on course for a maiden Test century before his innings ended five runs short. Attempting to advance down the pitch, he was caught short of his crease by Alex Carey’s quick work behind the stumps.

Markram continued to build South Africa’s position and reached 78 while sharing a productive stand with David Bedingham. His innings ended when Starc held a well-judged catch off Josh Hazlewood, giving Australia a crucial breakthrough.

South Africa’s middle order then came under pressure. Captain Temba Bavuma was bowled by Nathan Lyon, who beat the right-hander with a beautifully flighted delivery that drifted away before taking the stumps. Matthew Breetzke followed for two after Cooper Connolly trapped him leg before wicket, leaving the Proteas 221 for four at tea.

Australia continued to make inroads after the interval. Bedingham departed for 50 and Wiaan Mulder was dismissed without scoring, while Ryan Rickelton provided resistance with a composed 42. Marco Jansen also contributed another important half-century, making 52 to help South Africa maintain a substantial batting effort.

Starc was the pick of the Australian attack, finishing the day with six wickets for 72 runs. His performance gave the visitors a strong response after South Africa’s openers had controlled the first session and placed Australia under immediate pressure.

The deciding Test began with the series tied at 1-1. Australia won the opener in Durban by 214 runs from 9 to 13 October, while South Africa levelled the contest in Gqeberha by securing an innings-and-31-run victory in the second Test.

Australia entered the decider without Steve Smith, who was ruled out with a neck injury after experiencing stiffness during training. Josh Inglis, Cameron Green, Connolly and Lyon were brought into the XI, with Matt Renshaw opening alongside Travis Head and Green expected to replace Smith at No. 4. The Cape Town Test is scheduled for 27 to 31 October and will conclude the three-match series.