In Durban on 9 October, the opening Test of the series between South Africa and Australia began with the toss. Australia won and elected to bat first. The decision to bat follows traditional strategies on the pace‑friendly pitches.
The match scorecard notes it is the first Test between the sides in South Africa since the sandpapergate controversy. The detailed figures show the early progress of the Australian innings and the conditions faced by both teams. Both teams will look to build momentum as the series unfolds over the coming weeks.