When Michael Clarke in the year 2013 declared Australia’s innings with still a wicket to go, he was heavily criticised but he had a clear vision of getting a wicket or two in the later overs so as to end the day with an upper hand. We witnessed the same thing today as the South African captain Faf du Plessis, who himself batting on a score of 118* declared South Africa’s innings on 259/9 with still a wicket to go. He too had same vision like Clarke had but there was an additional and marginal view he saw in declaring early which probably none of the person present on the ground saw.
David Warner, the acrobatic Australian fielder hurt whilst the first innings and was absent from the field for some time. As per the law by ICC, a player is not allowed to take part in any proceedings unless he sits out for the same amount of period for which he is absent from the ground. This law prevented David Warner from taking guard for Australia, hence, Captain Smith was forced to send debutant Matt Renshaw to open the innings with Usman Khawaja.

A wise examination and vigilant on-field behaviour put Australian captain in awe who might be in two minds whether to open himself or let another player do the honours

However, the tactic failed as Australian team did not give away a single wicket in the last 12 overs to salvage an upper hand on day 1. Australian team dominated the day with bowlers making merry all day round. With owners providing a good tart to the team, Australia skipper David Warner will be hoping openers to bat a long way as the is is [lenty of time left in the game.

To conclude the day, it can be said that Australian team dominated the day with bowlers making merry with the pink ball. The skipper will be hoping the openers to start the day on a positive note tomorrow so as to churn out something from this series which has been awful for them till now.