Mitchell Starc Bowls Australia Into Third Test
Australia bowls South Africa out for 329 after a late bowling surge on the opening day at Newlands.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Baseball
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Australia dismissed South Africa for 329 runs on the first day of the third Test at Newlands. Mitchell Starc spearheaded the effort by taking 6 wickets for 72 runs, including four dismissals in just six deliveries.
Why it matters
The late bowling flurry disrupted South Africa's progress after a strong start, shifting momentum firmly toward Australia in the series. It leaves South Africa with a total that may prove insufficient given the late-day collapse.
Mitchell Starc claimed 6 wickets for 72 runs during the innings. South Africa lost all 10 wickets for a total of 329 runs after an opening partnership of 158 runs between Aiden Markram and Marques Ackerman.
The players
Mitchell Starc
An Australian international cricketer and fast bowler known for his left-arm pace.
Josh Hazlewood
An Australian professional cricketer who serves as a key fast-bowling member of the team.
Aiden Markram
A South African international cricketer who regularly opens the batting for the national team.
Marques Ackerman
A professional cricketer representing South Africa who contributed 95 runs to the opening partnership.
The details
Aiden Markram scored 78 runs and Marques Ackerman added 95 before the South African batting order faltered against Starc's late spell with the second new ball. Josh Hazlewood also contributed significantly to the defense, notably securing a complex catch near the boundary to dismiss Markram.
Timeline
October 28, 2026: Day 1 of the third Test match at Newlands.
Season Trajectory
This performance marks a significant shift in the third Test match at Newlands as Australia looks to capitalize on a late-innings collapse. The outcome forces a change in the strategic approach for the remainder of the series as both teams adjust to these developments.
Mitchell Starc's 6/72 bowling performance provides Australia with a distinct advantage heading into the second day of play. Fantasy cricket participants should note the high points yield from the four wickets taken within a span of six deliveries.
The takeaway
The effectiveness of the second new ball emphasizes the importance of managing bowling spells during the final stages of a day. Teams facing similar conditions must prioritize wicket preservation when the ball is fresh to avoid rapid batting collapses.
Further reading
For more on international match play, visit the Baseball section.
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