Australia closes in on opening Test victory against South Africa

Australia is on the verge of claiming victory in the first Test against South Africa, with the home side struggling at 166 for six at lunch on the final day in Durban on Tuesday.

The breakthrough came after South Africa's batsmen mounted early resistance on what looms as the decisive day at Kingsmead. Australia's bowlers struck twice in quick succession to remove key batsmen and shift momentum decisively in their favour.

With South Africa having lost half their wickets for a modest total, Australia requires just four more dismissals to seal the opening Test of the series. The visitors' bowling attack will be buoyed by the progress made in the morning session, which has left the home side in a precarious position.

The result would hand Australia a strong start to the tour, while South Africa faces an uphill battle to salvage the match from their current position. The afternoon session is expected to prove decisive in determining the outcome of the Test.