World Test Championship: Aussie fans left frustrated as review overturned on Temba Bavuma

An early review from South African captain Temba Bavuma has fired up aggrieved Aussie fans on the second morning of the World Test Championship Final at Lord’s.

Australia started the day in prime position despite crumbling to 212 all out on day one, having reduced the Proteas’ top order to 4-43.

However, it was not enough for fans as it became five down, Bavuma appearing to miss a ball from Josh Hazlewood that nipped back into his pads.

Umpire Chris Gaffney needed little convincing of the LBW shout, raising the finger and prompting Australian celebrations.

The South African skipper hesitated before calling the review late.

As the replays rolled, Snicko technology showed a noise as the red Dukes ball passed Bavuma’s inside edge, third umpire Richard Kettleborough convinced it was enough to overturn the dismissal, saving Bavuma.

But Australian fans fumed, the replays showing a gap between bat and ball with Bavuma’s white-wrapped off stump visible between the two.

One X account said: “If the third umpire used his two eyes he would see it was obvious the bloke missed the ball. Incompetence seems to run through ICC umpires.”

Bavuma made the most of the reprieve, starting to take the attack to the favourites after South Africa’s placid efforts in the final hour of the opening day nearly undid their bowlers’ hard work.

He and David Bedingham combined for a 64-run partnership, having guided the Proteas to the drinks break without loss.

The Aussies would not be held down, though, as under-pressure batter Marnus Labuschagne showed his worth in the field with a nice diving catch at cover to remove the captain for 36 off the bowling of Pat Cummins.

Bavuma had hit Cummins for a six in his previous over.

Approaching lunch, South Africa trailed Australia’s first innings by 113 runs with Bedingham and Kyle Verreynne at the crease.