adminCENTURION. — Shaun Marsh marked his return to Test cricket with a fighting century as Australia overcame a poor start on the first day of the first Test against South Africa at SuperSport Park yesterday. Australia were 297 for four at the close. They were reeling at 98 for four after being sent in to bat but Marsh (122 not out) and Steve Smith (91 not out) added an unbeaten 199 for the fifth wicket with positive stroke play. “Shaun was amazing all day,” said Smith. “He let the ball come into his areas, left really well and capitalised when they bowled in his areas.” Smith said Australia were in a good position against the world champions.
“We thought it was going to be quite tough this morning but if we got through that initial phase it was going to be quite a nice wicket to bat on.
“It actually played well throughout the day with good pace and bounce. There are a few cracks forming so hopefully with the heat overhead we can get a big first innings total and let the cracks come into the game later.” — AFP.
Online Reporter