Perth: A failed review capped a miserable day for South Africa on the opening day of their first cricket Test against Australia at the WACA Ground, here Thursday.
After fast bowler Mitchell Starc (4/71) returned in style to international cricket to help Australia dismiss South Africa for 242, the visitors were denied the crucial wicket of David Warner (73 batting, 62b, 13×4, 1×6) in bizarre circumstances late in the day.
Seamer Vernon Philander believed he had trapped Warner LBW for 17 with the Australian total on just 19, but umpire Aleem Dar dismissed the appeal. The South Africans called for a review, only for replays to show it was a front foot no-ball by Philander.
At stumps on the first day it was shaping as a costly error by Philander as the reprieve helped the free-hitting Warner get through to the close to cap a tremendous day for the home side. Australia were in a commanding position at 105 without loss.
Warner made the most of his good fortune with some dashing strokeplay, including a six over third man off Dale Steyn where he ended up on his backside as the ball sailed over the fence.
Earlier returning from a gruesome leg injury suffered in training, Starc struck with the fourth ball of the match and bowled with sustained pace as the tourists struggled after winning the toss and electing to bat. He was well-supported by Josh Hazlewood (3/70) as the Proteas slipped to 34 and never recovered properly.
Middle-order batsmen Temba Bavuma (51, 86b, 7×4) and Quinton de Kock (84, 101b, 11×4, 1×6), battled hard, but failed to revive the innings.
Brief scores: South Africa 242 (Quinton de Kock 84, Mitchell Starc 4/71); Australia 105 for no loss (David Warner 73 batting).
Agence France-Presse
