Australia’s Collapse Hands South Africa the Series and Top Spot

Nathan Lyon was Australia’s top scorer, unbeaten on 33, as his team fell for 111 in Cape Town. South Africa won by 176 runs, taking the series 2-1 and the top spot in the Test rankings. The final-day collapse turned a chase of 288 into a rout, leaving Australia’s players and former greats facing tough questions. ^14,16

The trouble began almost at once. South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada removed Matt Renshaw and Marnus Labuschagne in the opening over, then dismissed Travis Head. A mix-up between Cameron Green and Josh Inglis ended with Inglis run out. Simon Harmer then ripped through the rest, taking six wickets for 16 runs as Australia slumped to 7-60 by lunch. ^1,10

That 111 was the latest sign of a deeper batting problem. Australia had also been bowled out for 99 in the second Test, which South Africa won by an innings and 31 runs. Former opener Simon Katich said the team had been making excuses about difficult pitches, while captain Pat Cummins admitted some batters made poor choices. Cummins defended spinner Nathan Lyon, saying he controlled the game, and noted that South Africa scored slowly against him. ^2,5,7

Cummins said Australia would ask whether it needed a new style or different players before facing New Zealand at home. The defeat dropped Australia from first to third in the World Test Championship standings, behind New Zealand and South Africa, and from first to second in the ICC Test rankings. The first home Test against New Zealand begins in Perth on December 9. ^5,14