In the third Test of the 2026-2027 series, Australia lead South Africa by 100 runs in the first innings after Josh Inglis, a late substitute for Steve Smith, batted and smashed 102 off 135 deliveries. Australia answered with 429 all out after South Africa scored 329 in the first innings, with Inglis’ knock at the heart of the recovery.
He scored a century from 132 balls against off-spinner Simon Harmer, with a reverse sweep for four. However, three balls later, Harmer got him behind for 102. Inglis compared the circumstances and his approach to “old Test match cricket,” admitting that “he couldn’t score” at some times in his innings. He explained how he approached the reverse sweep, which lifted the milestone.
The most vital aspect of Australia’s performance was a fifth-wicket partnership of 185 runs between Josh Inglis and Alex Carey, with the latter contributing 80 runs. Despite the scale of the relationship, Inglis was clear about wanting more, and he recognized the significance of that attitude.
South Africa was 40 runs ahead of Australia at the close of the third day, having scored 140 for 4 in their second innings. The trophy will be awarded to the victor of the third Test at Newlands, thus deciding the series.
How did Josh Inglis’ innings affect his reputation in Australian cricket?
Josh Inglis made his debut against Sri Lanka in early 2025, scoring his second Test century. The most difficult of conditions led to the century at Newlands: a pre-existing finger injury that required protective gear and a late call-up in lieu of Australia’s most reliable batter.
Josh Inglis is now the only Australian batsman to have scored hundreds in all three international cricket formats, having scored two in Tests, two in ODIs, and one in T20I. Inglis also spoke about how he handled the bowling changes and how the relationship developed.
What is the current state of the match, and what are the following steps?
Despite taking the lead, South Africa finished day three of the third Test at Newlands in a dangerous position, having lost four wickets in their second innings. With only six wickets remaining, South Africa is facing a massive deficit due to Australia’s 100-run lead from the first innings.
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The Newlands match is a virtual decider because the series is tied entering the final Test. South African bowlers, notably Wiaan Mulder and Gerald Coetzee, took part in Australia’s first innings. The outcome of the following few days will determine which side takes home the series trophy.
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