Josh Inglis and Alex Carey’s unbeaten partnership helped Australia take a narrow first-innings lead on the second day of the third Test against South Africa at Newlands on Wednesday. Australia finished the day at 330 for four, just one run ahead of South Africa’s first innings total of 329, with six wickets remaining.

The match, which is tied at 1-1 in the series, reached a critical stage as both teams vied for control in the decisive Test. Inglis, who was returning after missing the first two Tests due to a broken finger, scored 85 not out off 111 balls, showcasing a mix of aggression and composure. He and wicketkeeper Carey, unbeaten on 51, combined for an unbroken 145-run partnership for the fifth wicket, steering Australia into a favorable position.

Earlier, openers Matt Renshaw and Travis Head put together 58 runs for the first wicket before Head was dismissed for 41. Spinner Simon Harmer claimed Head’s wicket with his first delivery. Harmer also removed Marnus Labuschagne for a duck, continuing the batsman’s recent struggles.

Renshaw contributed a patient 74 runs over 139 balls but was dismissed just before tea by left-arm fast bowler Marco Jansen, who also claimed the wicket of Cameron Green, who made a more attacking 65 with two sixes and eight fours. The quick dismissals of Renshaw and Green in close succession briefly shifted momentum toward South Africa, but Inglis and Carey’s stand steadied the innings.

The pitch at Newlands, known for favoring batsmen on the second and third days, offered little assistance to South African seamers. Despite sustained pressure, South Africa’s bowling attack managed only three wickets on a warm and clear day. The home side’s bowlers found limited seam or swing, requiring patience and discipline to create chances.

Australia’s total just surpasses South Africa’s first innings, which was set largely through solid top-order batting, leaving the visitors six wickets in hand heading into the third day. The result of this match carries significant implications, as the winner will claim the Test series and ascend to the top of the international Test rankings, currently held by Australia. South Africa’s earlier victory in the second Test in Gqeberha leveled the series after Australia’s opening Test win in Durban.

Both teams face a crucial day ahead as they seek to establish dominance in a tightly contested series on a historically batting-friendly pitch.