AUS vs SA: Australia in command after rain affected first day in Sydney Test

Stumps was called after just 47 overs on the opening day of the Pink Test.

By Chaitanya Prakash

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Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne
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Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne. (Photo Source: Twitter/CA)

The opening day of the third and final Test match between Australia and South Africa concluded in disappointment as only 47 overs were possible on the day due to bad light and persistent showers. However, the hosts have made a steady start to the match with 147/2 on the board before the end of play on Day 1. Marnus Labuschagne continues his terrific form in red-ball cricket with his 14th half-century and he received valiant support from opener Usman Khawaja who surpassed 4000 runs in Test cricket for Australia.

Pat Cummins won the toss and elected to bat first in the Pink Test, showing support for The McGrath foundation, which helps breast cancer patients. Australia's decision to bat first on the venue was influenced by the characteristics of the pitch that is slated to assist the spinners. Ashton Agar was drafted into the squad given the spin-friendly nature of the SCG track.

The home side were hit by an early setback as the incoming Matt Renshaw tested positive for Covid before the start of play on Day 1. However, he was allowed to participate in the match under the new guidelines. South Africa gained the upper hand in the first session of the day after getting rid of last match's hero David Warner cheaply.

Marnus Labuschagne and Usman Khawaja consolidated after David Warner's early wicket

However, the Protean pace attack was blunted by Warner's opening partner Usman Khawaja and a stubborn Marnus Labuschagne. The duo registered their respective half-centuries in the match, with Khawaja breaching the 4000 run mark in Tests for Australia during his stay at the crease.

The first day of the series finale witnessed a moment of controversy when Labuschagne was caught in the slips on a personal score of 70. However, the third umpire overturned the on-field call despite a lack of conclusive evidence. But the prolific batter could not make it count as he was sent packing by an unplayable delivery from the fiery Anrich Nortje, who bowled his heart out for the Proteas.

Labuschagne's dismissal proved to be the last action of the day as the rain eventually had the final say as stumps was called after just 47 overs on the opening day of the Pink Test.

Here is how Twitter reacted to the opening day of the series finale between Australia and South Africa:

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Australia v South Africa 2022-23South AfricaAustraliaAnrich NortjeMarnus Labuschagne