# Labuschagne's ugly send-off ignites Test drama

> A DRS controversy, a bloodied bowler and a captain's regret shape day three at Newlands.
- Title: Labuschagne's ugly send-off ignites Test drama · Abc
- Summary: A DRS controversy, a bloodied bowler and a captain's regret shape day three at Newlands. Australia's 100-run first-innings lead was built on South Africa's…
- Keywords: australia cricket, south africa cricket, marnus labuschagne, temba bavuma, drs controversy, test cricket, newlands, marques ackerman, news, politics, Labuschagne's, ugly
- Source: Abc — https://abc.net.au/news/2026-10-30/australia-sa-quick-hits-day-three-labuschagne-drs-bavuma/107325486
- Read time: 2 min
- Topics: australia cricket, south africa cricket, marnus labuschagne, temba bavuma, drs controversy, test cricket, newlands, marques ackerman, news, politics
## Ackerman's bouncer sparks DRS chaos
Mitchell Starc's steepling bouncer to Marques Ackerman struck helmet and bat. Ackerman called for review as the DRS timer hit zero, but officials ruled he had taken too long.
## Labuschagne's stump mic moment
As South Africa pleaded their case, Marnus Labuschagne could be heard from the other end saying: "The timer's up, oh no, see you buddy!" Travis Head moved towards Ackerman to check on him.

> The timer's up, oh no, see you buddy!
## Replays vindicate the decision
Technology showed the ball had collected a thick edge before crashing into Ackerman's visor. He was rightly given out for 62, even if the review had been permitted.
## Harmer's bloodied fingers turn the game
Simon Harmer tore a nail attempting a low catch, then took two crucial wickets. Josh Inglis was caught behind for 102, and Alex Carey for 80 nudged to slip.
## Australia's lead reaches 100 runs
Australia's tail eeked out a 100-run first-innings lead, eventually dismissed for 429. South Africa faced the challenge of batting again with momentum against them.
## Labuschagne returns fire at Bedingham
After Matthew Breetzke celebrated Labuschagne's five-ball duck on day two, the Queenslander responded when David Bedingham holed out to Josh Hazlewood. Labuschagne ran towards Bedingham with chest puffed out, face red and fist pumping.
## A strange moment on the hill
During the first session, broadcast cameras found a man holding a sign reading: "Ryan Rickelton, is your mum single?" Rickelton, South Africa's wicketkeeper-batter, was stony-faced in response.

> Ryan Rickelton, is your mum single?
## Bavuma throws it away at stumps
Temba Bavuma and Matthew Breetzke had rebuilt South Africa's innings and needed just eight more balls to survive. Nathan Lyon bowled a perfect off break that swung Bavuma clean through the gate.
## South Africa ends day 40 runs ahead
Bavuma's wildly inappropriate shot left him grimacing and shaking his head as he departed for 35. South Africa finished day three on 4-140, just 40 runs in front of Australia.
## Key takeaway

Australia's 100-run first-innings lead was built on South Africa's DRS drama and Temba Bavuma's late collapse, but Marnus Labuschagne's conduct drew criticism.