Matt Renshaw made a career-best 190 from 397 balls in Durban, dragging Australia from 124-6 to 390 all out against South Africa.
Renshaw shared an 86-run partnership with captain Pat Cummins before adding 134 with number 10 Nathan Lyon. He managed the strike to protect Lyon from Anrich’s pace, helping frustrate South Africa’s bowlers as the pitch flattened on the second day.
The innings came during Renshaw’s return to Test cricket after an inconsistent international career. Recalled in August as an opener, he moved to number five for this match after Cameron Green was ruled out.
Green is expected to return, while Nic Maddinson’s 33-ball duck at the top of the order added to Australia’s selection questions. Maddinson’s appearance alongside Travis Head marked Australia’s 11th different opening partnership since David Warner retired. Renshaw’s innings leaves Australia well placed to push for victory, although the knock does not resolve the wider uncertainty over their top order.