Maddinson's Duck Haunts Australia's Start Against South Africa

Australia's Test series against South Africa got off to a shaky start in Durban, with opener Nic Maddinson enduring a "torturous" 33-ball duck. The selectors' decision to include Maddinson has come under immediate scrutiny following his failure to contribute, exacerbating Australia's slide to 187 for 6 before bad light halted play on the first day.

Despite the early setback and a series of questionable selections, opener Matt Renshaw and bowler Pat Cummins managed to hold off the South African attack, keeping Australia's hopes alive. The match is also being played under the shadow of past controversies, with subtle references to the 2018 'Sandpapergate' incident by South African broadcasters adding an extra layer of historical tension to the series.