6-72 from Starc Keeps Australia Alive in Cape Town Decider

Starc’s 6-72 Caps Proteas Collapse as Australia Fights Back in Cape Town

Australia roared back into the deciding Test against South Africa on Tuesday, restricting the Proteas to 329 all out after Mitchell Starc’s epic spell, CODE Sports reported. Starc claimed 6-72 to turn the Cape Town decider on its head, keeping the tourists alive after a collapse saw South Africa tumble from 2/203.

The dramatic momentum shift followed a hugely controversial call at the toss by Australian captain Pat Cummins. Opting to bowl first, Cummins faced immediate scrutiny as the Proteas put on 158 runs for the opening wicket. Yet, Starc’s wizardry with the ball on Day 2 completely altered the complexion of the match.

Lasuka Lahlala Kwi Final Session! 🙌Australia get off the mark with a couple of runs as they move to 193/4 after 55 overs, still trailing by 136 runs. 🏟️🏏#Unbreakable #SAvAUS pic.twitter.com/mZJh9nKWVi

— https://x.com/ProteasMenCSA/status/2115438114416316859

Labuschagne Struggles as Australia Faces Early Turbulence

Australia’s response faced early turbulence, highlighted by Marnus Labuschagne falling for a duck. According to News.com.au, the innings continued a horror form slump for Labuschagne, leaving him with suggestions he may only have one innings left in his Test career. Compounding the top-order issues, the absence of Steve Smith left a visibly depleted batting line-up exposed heading into the middle sessions.

Stabilising the innings required grit. Green survived a close call after a reprieve from the third umpire, while Renshaw absorbed physical punishment, taking a fiery delivery from Kagiso Rabada straight into his arm guard.

6-72 from Starc Keeps Australia Alive in Cape Town Decider — Photo: News.com.au

The State of Play at Newlands

As the match progressed into its second day at Newlands, Australia reached 2-113 from 33 overs, with Renshaw batting on 39 and Green on 28. With the new-ball hardness beginning to wear off, both batters face the task of negotiating the remainder of the Proteas’ attack to reduce the deficit.

Match Venue: Newlands, Cape Town
South Africa First Innings: 329 all out
Australia First Innings Score: 2-113 (33 overs)
Key Figures: Mitchell Starc (6-72), Matt Renshaw (39*), Cameron Green (28*)

Disclaimer: The analytical insights and data provided in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or sports betting recommendations.

Tea, Day 2! ☕️What a toiling session as Marco Jansen shows his absolute class!!! #TheProteas are right back in the game! 😤🇿🇦Australia head into the break on 191/4 after 54 overs, still trailing by 138 runs. 🏏#Unbreakable #SAvAUS pic.twitter.com/p0rn97Xkvd

— https://x.com/ProteasMenCSA/status/2115432339975164026

More on South Africa

Glorious day in Cape Town and the Aussies decide to Bowl … Very Very unlike Australia … #SAvAUS

— https://x.com/MichaelVaughan/status/2115001220435742980