The steward at the bottom of the steps in front of the Lord’s pavilion was kept busy as Australian batsmen made frequent trips to and from the crease.

Australia’s innings began steadily,reaching 28 before the South African attack,led by Rabada,sparked a collapse.

Rabada initiated the slide by dismissing Usman Khawaja, mirroring his first-innings dismissal with a delivery that caught the left-hander’s edge.

Cameron Green followed shortly after, departing after a defensive shot found Mulder at third slip.

The crowd, largely supporting South Africa, reacted enthusiastically to the Australian struggles.

Labuschagne contributed to the downfall with a poor shot selection, edging a drive off Jansen to the diving Kyle Verreynne.

ngidi’s Spell Decimates Australian Middle Order

Australia’s situation worsened as Ngidi trapped Smith lbw after the batsman stepped across his stumps, a decision overturned on review.

“Australia were in tatters at 73-7.”

Webster was then dismissed without the need for DRS, falling to a delivery from Ngidi that nipped back sharply. Mulder then bowled head, hitting his off stump from around the wicket.

Ngidi continued his remarkable spell, a yorker hitting Cummins‘ pads and deflecting onto the stumps, leaving australia reeling at 73-7.

Early Finish Anticipated

Spectators holding tickets for the fourth day may need to consider alternative plans,given the rapid pace of the match so far.

Unless the weather intervenes, it seems unlikely that the match will extend into Saturday.

However,the third day promises to be a tense and exciting contest.