Aiden Markram’s defiant knock in the fourth innings, in which he batted for almost six hours for 75 runs before edging Mitchell Starc through to Alex Carey in the afternoon session, was one positive for the Proteas.
David Bedingham also looked comfortable in his new position of number three, albeit he was one of those guilty of failing to make the most of starts after reaching 49 and 46.
This defeat was not solely on the batters, either.
Bavuma, who tasted defeat as captain for the first time in this match, allowed the game to drift on day two as Australia extended their score from 124-6 to 390 not out.
Australia’s Matt Renshaw played brilliantly for his 190 but was not challenged as he casually farmed the strike and protected Nathan Lyon in their ninth-wicket stand of 134.
And while judging against Australia’s fearsome attack, the most successful quartet Test cricket has seen, is hardly fair, South Africa’s bowlers lacked the relentless pressure of their counterparts.
Anrich Nortje was impressive in taking four wickets in his first Test since March 2023. His last spell was quicker than his first as he brought pace and hostility, hitting Steve Smith on the helmet with a bouncer on day four.
But Mulder offered little after his new-ball spells and Marco Jansen was quiet after dismissing Nic Maddinson and Steve Smith on day one.
The return from injury of their premier quick Kagiso Rabada, who was seen bowling at lunch on day five, cannot come soon enough.
Spinners Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj did not escape Conrad’s gaze either.
“Anrich’s return was phenomenal and really pleasing,” Conrad said.
“If we were brutally honest, our spinners were not as sharp as they normally are.”
With the second Test starting in only five days’ time in Gqeberha, South Africa must hope this Test has removed the rust.
The alternate takeaway would be far more concerning.
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