Australia posted a solid first-innings total of 390 in the opening Test against South Africa at Kingsmead in Durban. The cornerstone of the Australian effort was an innings of 190 from Matt Renshaw, who fell just ten runs short of a maiden double hundred. While Renshaw held the innings together from the top, the tail provided stubborn resistance, with captain Pat Cummins making 43 and Nathan Lyon contributing a gritty 27. Lyon's steady knock at number 10 not only helped push the total close to 400, but also saw the veteran off-spinner create a unique piece of batting history in Test cricket.
A Pioneering Feat Down the Order
Arriving at the crease in his customary position at number 10, Nathan Lyon negotiated 92 deliveries and hit 5 boundaries during his 27-run knock. That effort propelled him past the 1,000-run mark specifically in the number 10 batting position, making him the first cricketer in the history of Test matches to reach the milestone from that spot. He surpassed former England fast bowler Stuart Broad, who previously held the record for the most runs at number 10 with a tally of 825. Lyon's contribution once again illustrated the immense value of Australia's lower-order resilience in grueling overseas encounters.
Career Figures Underline Exceptional Longevity
Across a Test career spanning 144 matches, Lyon has accumulated 1705 runs, with an overwhelming 1019 of those coming while slotted at number 10. His primary craft, however, remains spin bowling, where he has achieved remarkable consistency over the years. In 143 bowling appearances in Tests, Lyon has captured 571 wickets at an average of 30.20 and an economy rate of 2.94. He has taken a five-wicket haul on 24 separate occasions in the format. In addition to his Test achievements, Lyon has represented Australia in 29 One-Day Internationals, claiming 29 wickets in that format.
Matt Renshaw's Marathon Effort Puts Australia Ahead
Earlier on the second day of the match, opener Matt Renshaw played the definitive innings of the Australian effort, grinding out a career-best 190 runs. Renshaw occupied the crease across 397 balls, striking 21 fours and a six to anchor the team to their 390-run finish. In reply, South Africa faced a tricky final passage of play before stumps, reaching 27 for the loss of one wicket by the close of the second day. The home side still trails Australia by 363 runs heading into day three, leaving the visitors in firm control of proceedings.
