The unique fact about South Africa’s 284 against Australia in Durban

Last Updated on 27 minutes ago by Charbel Coorey

Day three of the first Test represented a missed opportunity for South Africa. On a good batting pitch in Durban, a host of batters threw their wicket away to hand Australia the initiative.

The Proteas were bowled out for 284 in 78 overs, 106 short of Australia’s 390. Matt Renshaw showed the template across the first two days for his outstanding 190, displaying the type of temperament and patience required to overcome tricky spells.

South Africa’s 284 one of the highest Test totals to not include a half-century

No South African batsman crossed 50, with David Bedingham top-scoring with 49. Four were dismissed in the 30s, and one in the 20s. Simon Harmer finished unbeaten on 35.

The hosts were their own worst enemy. Bedingham and Aiden Markram (49) were out in a similar fashion, attempting to force deliveries through the covers off the backfoot and edging to slip. Temba Bavuma (3) and Kyle Vereyenne were out caught (brilliantly by Steve Smith) reverse sweeping. Wiaan Mulder (30) and Tristan Stubbs (33) fell to poor shots against the short ball. Marco Jansen (26) and Keshav Maharaj (34) were out caught in front of the wicket.

Despite the poor dismissals, South Africa still managed to stitch promising partnerships together. In fact, their total of 284 is the equal sixth-highest total in Test history to not feature a half-century.

The highest is 315 by England against West Indies in Port of Spain way back in 1985/86. Here is the list:

Australia finished day three – which was shortened again due to bad light – at 33/0, leading by 139.