Australia rolled into Kingsmead with a 214‑run lead, sealing the first Test of the Durban series. Hazlewood’s 6/49 on day five poured the final blow.
South Africa chased 421, but a blistering spell from Hazlewood—wickets to Mulder, Jansen, Harmer, and Nortje—sent the hosts tumbling to 206. Markram’s 75 and Jansen’s 35 were eclipsed by the Australian onslaught.
Matt Renshaw anchored the win, piling up 190 in the first innings and adding 82 in the second. His 272 runs earned him Player of the Match, as Australia declared at 314/6, setting a daunting target.
The loss drops South Africa to third in the WTC table, with a 60.00% points percentage. New Zealand’s win‑rate climbs to 72.22%, pushing them to second place. Australia’s 81.82% keeps them firmly on top.
Temba Bavuma, South Africa’s captain, suffered his first loss as skipper. The defeat raises questions about South Africa’s preparation for the next series and the pressure on their bat‑and‑ball balance.
Looking ahead, Australia will face New Zealand in the second Test, a clash that could decide the championship’s early hierarchy. The stage is set for another high‑stakes encounter.