South Africa took a 1-0 lead in the three-match Test series against Australia after thrashing the hosts by 177 runs on day five of the first Test at Perth. Kagiso Rabada, who finished with seven wickets in the match, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings claimed the Man of the Match award.
Chasing 539, Australia began the day with Usman Khawaja and Mitchell Marsh at the crease still 370 adrift. While a victory was beyond question, a draw was still not inconceivable if the hosts could muster a stoic display of defensive resistance.
However, it wasn’t to be as Australia were bowled out for 361 and fell short by 177 runs, thereby losing their first Test at home since 2012, which also, incidentally, came at the hands of South Africa at the WACA, Perth.
Also Read: Australia vs South Africa, 1st Test Stats: Australia's unbeaten home streak ended
Man of the Match Kagiso Rabada admitted he was proud of the way the team pulled together following Dale Steyn’s injury on day two.
“I’m very proud of how the team pulled it together. We lost Dale, he's a key aspect of the game. All the bowlers have a job to do, when Dale is gone, it means we have to do extra,” he said.
“You hear a lot of stories where quick bowlers do well here (at the WACA). Similar to the Wanderers back home. Still a bit flat though. Australia also got he ball to reverse. We executed really well. I can confidently say there will not be too much bowling over the next few days, but I'll be ready for Hobart if I get chosen."
Here are the reactions from the cricket fraternity:
AB de Villiers is facing a race against the clock to be fit for the rest of the Australia series.
Damien Fleming:
Dale Steyn might be ruled out of the series but the Proteas fire was still burning strong:
South African all-rounder Albie Morkel hailed his compatriots’ efforts.
Herschelle Gibbs:
Dean Jones:
Former Australian captain Michael Clarke:
Former Australian batsman Damien Martyn:
Former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris:
Former Sri Lankan international Russel Arnold:
Anjum Chopra:
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