Inglis and Carey put Australia in control of the third Test

Josh Inglis and Alex Carey put Australia in a strong position against South Africa in the third Test at Newlands on Wednesday. Australia closed the second day on 330-4, with Inglis unbeaten on 85. Carey was also still at the crease, having made 51.

Inglis came into the side in place of the injured Steve Smith and joined Carey in an unbroken 145-run stand for the fifth wicket. Their resistance helped Australia take the initiative after South Africa had been dismissed for 329. Australia ended the day with four wickets down and a favourable position in the match.

Australia had faced difficult spells earlier in the day. After a poor start, with South Africa scoring freely during the opening part of play, the visitors fought their way back into the contest. South Africa’s position of 203-1 became 232-6. Aiden Markram, David Bedingham and Wiaan Mulder were dismissed while trying to play the short balls, after scoring 78, 50 and zero respectively.

Marnus Labuschagne was the one Australian batter not to score: he was out for a duck, caught at slip by Aiden Markram off Harmer. All the other Australian batters made runs. Labuschagne’s dismissal also continued a difficult run in Test cricket.

The series is level at 1-1. Australia won the first Test by 214 runs in Durban, before South Africa took the second by an innings and 31 runs in Gqeberha. The winner of this match will take the number-one spot in the Test world rankings, currently held by Australia. After a challenging start, Australia have mounted a response in a match that could also have consequences for the international season ahead.