Brief

Pat Cummins suggests Matt Renshaw could open next Test in Gqeberha

Cummins praised Renshaw’s 190 and said the side wants flexibility ahead of the Gqeberha Test.

By Felo News Desk · Published Wed, 14 Oct 2026 08:17:04 GMT

Australia’s captain Pat Cummins hinted on October 14 that left‑hander Matt Renshaw could be promoted to opener for the second Test in Gqeberha, after the batsman’s match‑winning 190 at number five in Durban.

What happened

On day five of the Durban Test, Renshaw scored 190 runs, added 82 in South Africa’s fourth innings and claimed two wickets, helping Australia secure a 214‑run victory. Cummins said the performance showed Renshaw could be a “great opener” and that the team is looking at flexible batting options for the upcoming match in Gqeberha, which starts on Sunday.

What the reports add

According to the SMH article, Cummins explained that the decision will involve assessing the conditions in Gqeberha and the overall balance of the top six batters, including Travis Head and recalled Nic Maddinson. He noted that Head has defended his opening role but has also batted quietly, while Maddinson, after a 33‑ball duck on day one, scored 48 off 38 balls in the second innings and bowled a few overs.

What was said

“We’re always big on how the order functions as a whole,” Cummins told SMH. “Seeing the way that he played spin in the one‑day series led me to the thought he would look pretty good at number five. Give us a few days, we’ll look at the conditions of the next Test and whether that’s still the case.” He added, “I still think he can be a great opener, and now he’s got another string to his bow.”

How it came about

Cummins said the discussion involved tour selectors Andrew McDonald and George Bailey, as well as himself and the coaching staff. He said the side is “very big on flexibility” and wants the ability to rotate openers, move Renshaw or Head to number five, or even slot Maddinson at that position. The approach follows Australia’s recent success in Durban, where Renshaw’s 190 rescued the team from 124 for six and set a new Australian ninth‑wicket record at the venue.

Key facts

Matt Renshaw scored 190 runs at number five in the Durban Test. (smh.com.au)
Pat Cummins said Renshaw could be considered for opening in the Gqeberha Test. (smh.com.au)
Australia won the Durban Test by 214 runs. (smh.com.au)
Selectors Andrew McDonald and George Bailey were consulted on the batting order. (smh.com.au)
Nic Maddinson scored 48 off 38 balls in the second innings after a first‑innings duck. (smh.com.au)