Start against South Africa bears resemblance to Edgbaston Test

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, October 28, 2026

Australia began the first Test against South Africa in Cape Town with their poorest session since 2005, struggling with fielding errors and a flat pitch that allowed South Africa's openers to amass a record fast century partnership. Despite early setbacks and key player absences, Australia fought back after lunch, led by Mitchell Starc’s six wickets, but their initial difficulties raise concerns as the series decider progresses.

Australia endured a challenging opening session during the first Test of the series decider against South Africa in Cape Town, recording their worst start since 2005. The match unfolded under circumstances that drew comparisons to the Edgbaston Test nearly two decades ago.

Steve Smith was initially slated to bat at No. 4 but was sidelined due to a flare-up of a persistent neck injury, observing proceedings from the sidelines instead of preparing to contribute with the bat. Australia made four changes to the side that failed to secure victory in the second Test, including the exclusion of opener Nic Maddinson, all-rounder Beau Webster, and controversially, Scott Boland, who had excelled previously with a five-wicket haul. Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Nathan Lyon, and all-rounder Cooper Connolly returned to the playing XI, with Connolly making only his second Test appearance.

In a decision that echoed the 2005 Edgbaston match, Australia captain Pat Cummins elected to bowl first on a pitch described as flat, despite having two specialist spinners, Lyon and Connolly, in the XI. This choice was viewed as an attempt to exploit the home side’s vulnerability but instead presented challenges against South Africa’s openers, Aiden Markram and Marques Ackerman.

The South African pair compiled a commanding opening stand, amassing 100 runs faster than any opening partnership Australia had conceded after choosing to bowl first since Edgbaston 2005. Ackerman, typically a middle-order batsman in his second Test, impressed with bold off-side cuts and leg-side flicks, accelerating the scoring rate. The innings included a significant boundary off Pat Cummins that brought up the century stand.

Australia’s fielding lapses compounded their difficulties. Travis Head, regarded for his composure under pressure, dropped a straightforward catch in the 23rd over when Markram’s tame drive was offered at short extra cover, an error that drew visible frustration from bowler Mitchell Starc. Starc, currently ranked the world’s leading bowler, struggled with consistency, conceding four consecutive boundaries to Ackerman just before the lunch break. South Africa capitalised on these lapses to reach 140 runs without loss by the interval, a rare occurrence for Australia.

However, after lunch, Australia mounted a fightback. When South Africa’s total reached 158 without loss, Lyon dismissed Ackerman, who was stumped after stepping out of his crease. Markram followed, attempting another aggressive shot, which catalyzed a South African collapse. Starc spearheaded the resistance, claiming the final six wickets with a combination of short-pitched deliveries and yorkers, ultimately dismantling the hosts from 327 for six to 329 all out.

While South Africa’s first innings total was considerably lower than England’s commanding 407 at Edgbaston in 2005, Australia’s initial struggles in the field and with their bowling attack highlighted concerns as the series entered its decisive phase.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.