Photo via The Times of India

First time in 149 years: Australia make unique record in first Test vs South Africa

Australia made history in the first Test against South Africa by fielding the oldest playing XI in their 149-year Test history, with every player aged 30 or above. The team’s average age of 34.59 marked a significant shift from their usual rotation, which had previously included younger openers.

Veteran spinner Nathan Lyon, at 38, led the side as the oldest player, while Matt Renshaw, 30, was the youngest. The squad’s experience was underscored by five players aged 35 or older, including captain Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Alex Carey, and Josh Hazlewood, with only Nic Maddinson, recalled at 34, breaking the trend of younger openers in recent months.

Australia’s 18-member squad also reflected this aging trend, with an average age of 32.6 and just three players under 30, including Cameron Green and Sam Harper, who have struggled with consistency in recent matches.

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