Australian batsman Matt Renshaw brought an end to his nearly decade-long wait for a Test century on the second day of the first Test against South Africa. Renshaw, 30, batted with composure to score a career-best 190, leading Australia to 390 all out at Kingsmead. His innings was marked by an emotional response when he hit the boundary to reach his century. Renshaw's previous Test century was 184 against Pakistan in Sydney in January 2017.
Renshaw's journey to this century has been marked by setbacks, including being left out of the side for two lengthy periods and being dropped from his state team, Queensland. He was recalled to the Test team against Bangladesh in August this year. His 134-run ninth wicket partnership with Nathan Lyon was a record for Australia in Tests against South Africa and swung the balance of the match in Australia's favour. This partnership was crucial in Australia's recovery from 124 for six on the first day.
The partnership between Renshaw and Lyon drained the energy out of the South African bowlers on a hot and humid day. Renshaw tried to keep the majority of the strike, turning down 40 or more runs to test the endurance of the South African bowlers. His strategy was to keep South Africa in the field for as long as possible to exploit the fatigue of their bowlers, who last played a Test in November.
South African bowler Wiaan Mulder acknowledged that the pitch was "really slow" and offered "not a lot of sideways movement." He praised Renshaw's batting, saying he "played beautifully" and "left extremely well." Mulder also noted that Renshaw's ability to keep the strike was crucial in his innings. South Africa's bowlers struggled to contain Renshaw and Lyon, who added valuable runs to Australia's total.
Josh Hazlewood struck in the second over of South Africa's reply, reducing the hosts to 27 for one at the close. Renshaw's century was a significant milestone for him, and he celebrated it with a mix of emotions. He admitted that he had doubts about getting another opportunity to play for Australia, which made his celebration more intense.
The Australian team's strategy to bat for a long period and tire out the South African bowlers seemed to be working. Renshaw's batting partner, Nathan Lyon, also played a crucial role in the partnership, helping to steer Australia to a strong total. The South African team will need to work hard to get back into the match, given Australia's strong position.
The first Test between Australia and South Africa is evenly poised, with Australia holding a significant advantage. Renshaw's century has given Australia a strong foothold in the match, and South Africa will need to bat well to stay in the game. The hosts will look to build a strong partnership and get back into the match on the third day.
Key points
- Matt Renshaw scored a career-best 190 to lead Australia to 390 all out against South Africa.
- Renshaw's 134-run partnership with Nathan Lyon was a record for Australia in Tests against South Africa.
- Australia's strategy to bat for a long period and tire out the South African bowlers seemed to be working.
