Carey, Inglis lead Aussie fightback against South Africa: 3rd Test, Day 2 (Cape Town)

Australia finished Day 2 of the third Test against South Africa at 330 for 4, taking a narrow one-run first-innings lead over the hosts thanks to a rescue act from Josh Inglis and Alex Carey.

Matt Renshaw led the early charge with 74, while Cameron Green contributed a valuable 65 as Australia recovered from the loss of two wickets to build a strong platform.

Their efforts kept the visitors on course to establish a significant advantage in this series decider, with the three-match contest level at 1–1.

Josh Inglis and Alex Carey strengthened Australia’s position with an unbeaten fifth-wicket partnership of 145, leaving Inglis on 85 not out and Carey on 51 not out at stumps. Their composed batting frustrated the South African attack and carried Australia past the home side’s total.

Marco Jansen and Simon Harmer claimed two wickets apiece.

Australia 330 for 4 (Inglis 85*, Renshaw 74, Green 65, Carey 51*, Jansen 2-37, Harmer 2-84) lead South Africa 329 (Ackerman 95, Markram 78, Jansen 52, Starc 6-72, Lyon 2-71) by one run.

Oct 2026.