Australia win the first Test in Durban as Hazlewood seals it and Renshaw’s comeback takes the headlines
Australia beat South Africa in the first Test of the series in Durban, with Josh Hazlewood’s wicket sealing the win, the Nine papers and the Guardian reported on Tuesday. Australia needed six wickets on the final morning at Kingsmead (ABC, SMH, The Age) and got them. The Guardian credited Hazlewood with figures of 6-49; the winning margin was not in the headlines we saw. Matt Renshaw, playing a comeback Test, was dismissed by Keshav Maharaj’s fingertip catch short of a century, then took his first Test wicket, that of Temba Bavuma, and Pat Cummins said he could open in the next Test (Nine papers). Steve Smith is being tested for delayed concussion after being hit on the helmet (ABC, SMH).
A win in the opening Test sets the tone for the series and gives the selectors room, though injuries now cloud the second. Smith’s availability is the main question, and Renshaw’s form could settle an opening slot that has been uncertain.
If you are following the series, the next Test is the one to watch, but we did not see its date in these items. Fans who want the full scorecard should check the ABC or Cricinfo.
Renshaw’s innings and Hazlewood’s spell show a squad with more depth than its critics allowed, and the selectors have earned their calm.
One win does not clear the questions about the batting order, Smith’s health or the depth behind him; the series will be decided on the second Test.
Enjoy the win and note the caveat: the Smith concussion decision comes before the second Test, and a concussion cannot be rushed. The line to watch is who opens if Renshaw is promoted, because that decision shifts the order for everyone behind him.
DailyDrop Australia edition No. 10 · Morning · WED., OCT. 14, 2026