South Africa pacer Lungi Ngidi went wicketless in the first innings, but in the second, he delivered perhaps the most crucial breakthrough of Australia’s innings by dismissing Steve Smith. It was only Ngidi’s fourth over of the day, and on the fifth ball, he trapped the Australian vice-captain in front of the stumps.
The delivery angled in and then straightened, beating Smith’s outside edge and striking him on the back pad. Umpire Chris Gaffaney initially gave it not out, but South African captain Temba Bavuma opted to review the decision. The review showed there was no edge, the impact was in line, and the ball was going on to hit the stumps. With all three elements showing red, the decision was overturned—much to the delight of South Africa and their supporters. Smith managed just 13 runs from 25 balls, with a solitary boundary.
Lord’s has always been a happy hunting ground for Steve Smith
His wicket opened the floodgates for the Proteas. It was a big wicket from South Africa’s point of view, given his great record at Lord’s. Prior to this match, he had played five Tests at the venue, amassing 525 runs at an average of 58.33, including two centuries and two fifties. In the first innings of this match, he had scored a well-crafted 66 off 112 balls, striking 10 fours.
Australia are now reeling at 98 for 7, with only Nathan Lyon and Josh Hazlewood left to bat. The South African bowlers are on fire, with Ngidi claiming three wickets and Kagiso Rabada picking up two.
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