Australia is positioned to claim victory in the first Test against South Africa after reducing the hosts to 102 for four at stumps on Monday, setting up a tense final day at Kingsmead. Needing six wickets to secure their first Test win in the series, the visitors benefited from a strong all-around performance, particularly from Matt Renshaw.

Australia declared their second innings at 314 for six, setting a target of 421 runs for South Africa to win. Renshaw, who struck 82 in the second innings, continued his impressive form after scoring 190 in the first innings. His contributions helped Australia accelerate their run rate and establish a commanding position by tea before declaring.

South Africa began their chase with opener Ryan Rickelton, but he was dismissed cheaply again, this time for two runs after failing to build on his previous duck. Rickelton’s continued struggles may put his spot in the playing XI under pressure. His dismissal came when he edged a rising delivery from Josh Hazlewood to wicketkeeper Alex Carey. David Bedingham then extended resistance by scoring 46 before being trapped lbw by Hazlewood, ending a patient 66-run partnership with Aiden Markram, who remains unbeaten on 45. Captain Temba Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs were dismissed cheaply in quick succession, leaving South Africa in need of a resilient effort from the middle order.

Part-time spinner Renshaw picked up his first test wicket, adding to the pressure on the home side. Markram, still at the crease alongside Wiaan Mulder, who is five not out, faces the challenge of rebuilding the innings and helping South Africa avoid defeat when play resumes on Tuesday.

Australia’s bowling was supplemented by Cummins, who also impressed with the bat by striking a quick 32 off 12 balls, including four sixes, helping Australia post a competitive second innings total. Nic Maddinson returned to Test cricket after a lengthy absence and made 48 before being bowled by Anrich Nortje. Other contributors included Beau Webster, unbeaten on 39, and Steve Smith, who scored 27 and shared a 53-run partnership with Marnus Labuschagne, who made 37. Smith was hit on the helmet by a Nortje delivery and is currently being assessed under concussion protocols, casting doubt over his participation in the second Test scheduled for Sunday in Gqeberha.

As the match enters its decisive final day, South Africa will look to their remaining batsmen to mount a determined resistance against an Australian attack eager to secure a series-opening victory.