Matt Renshaw struck a career-best 190 as Australia took command of the first Test against South Africa in Durban, with his innings helping lift the visitors from 124-6 to 390 all out on day two.
The 30-year-old, born in Middlesbrough, reached his first Test century in more than nine years and 280 days, scoring 190 from 397 balls. His knock was central to Australia’s recovery after early trouble in a match that had already drawn attention because of concerns over the team’s ageing top order.
Renshaw shared key partnerships to turn the innings around, adding 86 with captain Pat Cummins and then 134 with Nathan Lyon, the number 10 batter. He later put on a further 21 with Josh Hazlewood before falling in the first over after tea. Australia’s total left South Africa 22 overs to bat, and opener Ryan Rickelton was dismissed for a three-ball duck.
The innings also strengthened Renshaw’s case for a continued place in Australia’s side. Recalled in August, he had been moved to number five for this Test after Cameron Green was ruled out, while Nic Maddinson opened alongside Travis Head. Australia’s top-order issues remain unresolved, but BBC Sport noted that Renshaw’s performance at least improved his immediate prospects.
