Last Updated on 1 hour ago by Charbel Coorey
Matt Renshaw’s second Test match back has been the stuff of dreams. The left-hander finished with 272 runs off 496 deliveries across both innings of the Durban Test, with two contrasting knocks showcasing his adaptability.
In the first innings, Renshaw had to battle through with Australia in all kinds of trouble at 84/4 and 124/6. His 397-ball classic not only ensured Australia got to a very competitive first innings total, but that South Africa didn’t get to bat when conditions were at their best in the middle part of the second day.
Fast forward to day four, and Renshaw produced the goods once again to help Australia to a 400+ lead. He hit 82 off 99 balls, sweeping expertly on both sides of the wicket against the spinners. He combined with Marnus Labuschagne, Alex Carey and Beau Webster for important partnerships of 32, 48 and 65 respectively as Australia upped the ante.
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Matt Renshaw nails down spot in Australia Test team with 272 runs in Durban
Renshaw’s match tally of 272 is the highest total for Australia in a single Test since Marnus Labuschagne’s 308 against West Indies in Perth in 2022.
Labuschagne played superbly in that match, but Renshaw’s performance in this Test – given the pressure his team was under on day one – is up there with the best for Australia in recent times. From 124/6 on Friday, Australia have left South Africa needing 421 to win on Monday, and a lot of it is down to Renshaw.
After batting patiently against South Africa’s pacers, Renshaw also showed his ability against spin. Bharat Sundaresan of Cricbuzz and SEN Cricket is keen to see the left-hander in India early next year.
“Already excited to see Matt Renshaw bat against spin in India,” wrote Sundaresan on X (formerly Twitter). “Has rapidly become the second best Test batter against spin in Australia just behind Steve Smith.”
Now the question is where Renshaw should bat going forward. He excelled at number five in this Test, but Travis Head has struggled as opener in recent matches and Cameron Green is expected to return soon.
Questions to ponder for the selectors following the Durban Test.
