Hazlewood takes 6-49 as reverse swing powers Australia in South Africa
Hazlewood captured 6-49 using legitimate reverse swing, the most he's generated in a Test since 2018.
Josh Hazlewood took 6 wickets for 49 runs against South Africa using reverse swing. Hazlewood dismissed David Bedingham with an lbw and caught Wiaan Mulder off a leg glance after the ball lost its shine.
Reverse swing is crucial on South Africa's hard, traditional pitches. The ball scuffs and shifts direction late in an innings.
In Australia's green, seaming wickets, reverse swing barely matters. This series is a rare chance to use the skill legally.
The conditions will favour whoever masters the aging ball best. Hazlewood's performance suggests Australia has the edge.
- 6 wickets for 49 runs
- Hazlewood's figures
- 2018 Durban Test
- Last similar performance
- South Africa
- Venues
Why it mattersHow Australia's bowlers adapt to different pitches will decide the series. Hazlewood's success shows they are reading the conditions better than their hosts.
AustraliaAustralia's Test team is competing for a key series win against a strong South African side, with series continuing at St George's Park next week.
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