The opening day of the first Test between South Africa and Australia at Kingsmead in Durban produced a gripping contest between bat and ball, with the visitors struggling against a relentless pace attack. Amid Australia’s batting troubles, veteran batter Steve Smith provided a moment of amusement with one of his trademark exaggerated leaves, drawing attention on social media. However, the light-hearted incident came during a challenging day for Australia, who finished at 187/6 after losing six wickets before mounting a recovery late in the afternoon.

Steve Smith’s unusual leave sparks amusement on social media

Steve Smith once again showcased his unconventional batting mannerisms during the 23rd over of Australia’s innings, bowled by South African left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj. As the delivery travelled through towards wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne, Smith opted to leave the ball alone.

However, rather than letting it pass with minimal movement, the experienced right-hander produced an exaggerated reaction that quickly caught the attention of viewers. A video of the incident subsequently circulated on social media, prompting humorous responses from cricket followers.

Smith has become familiar to fans for his distinctive batting technique and animated movements at the crease. His latest leave added another memorable moment to that collection, even as Australia faced mounting pressure in the opening Test. The incident offered a brief lighter moment during an otherwise difficult day for the visitors, whose reshuffled batting order struggled to cope with South Africa’s disciplined bowling attack.

Here’s the video:

A Steve Smith special ™️

Watch all the action from Australia’s Tour of South Africa LIVE on FanCode 📲#SAvAUS #SouthAfrica #Australia #Cricket #Smith pic.twitter.com/M6VExeXSo8

— FanCode (@FanCode) October 10, 2026

South Africa’s bowlers put Australia under pressure

Australia elected to bat first under sunny conditions but endured a difficult start. Travis Head was dismissed for nine by Wiaan Mulder, while recalled opener Nic Maddinson was bowled by Marco Jansen for a 33-ball duck.

Marnus Labuschagne and Smith attempted to stabilise the innings, putting together a 60-run partnership. Labuschagne scored 37, while Smith contributed 25 before Jansen dismissed the Australian batter shortly after the lunch interval with a rising delivery that was caught at gully. Mulder had already dealt another blow to Australia on the final ball before lunch, trapping Labuschagne lbw.

The visitors’ difficulties continued after the break. Alex Carey managed 14 before Anrich Nortje found his edge, with the ball carrying to second slip. Nortje struck again two deliveries later, dismissing debutant all-rounder Beau Webster for four after the batter edged behind. Australia slumped to 124/6, leaving their innings in danger of collapsing further as South Africa’s fast bowlers maintained their intensity.

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Matt Renshaw and Pat Cummins rescue Australia before bad light stops play

With Australia under considerable pressure, Matt Renshaw and captain Pat Cummins produced a determined response to prevent further damage. Renshaw remained unbeaten on 46, while Cummins was not out on 33 at the close. Their unbroken 63-run partnership helped Australia recover from a precarious position and reach 187/6.

The pair combined defensive discipline with patience, negotiating the threat posed by Maharaj and Simon Harmer‘s spin while also standing firm against South Africa’s aggressive short-pitched bowling. Their resistance gave Australia some stability after a difficult sequence of wickets. However, the visitors still had considerable work to do after losing six batters on the opening day.

Bad light eventually forced the umpires to call an early end to play, with 24.4 overs remaining in the day’s scheduled allocation. Australia finished at 187/6, setting up an important second day’s play as Renshaw and Cummins prepared to continue their recovery against a South African attack that had dominated much of the contest.

Also READ: SA vs AUS 2026, Test Series: Broadcast, Live Streaming – When and where to watch in India, Australia, South Africa & other countries

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