Australia's Test slide raises questions for Cummins

Australia captain Pat Cummins conceded that it was entirely fair to face searching questions following back-to-back heavy defeats against South Africa that sealed a 2-1 series loss at Newlands on Saturday.

Chasing 288 for victory in the third Test, the visitors were rocked early and managed only 111, suffering a 176-run defeat following their innings and 31-run collapse in the second match.

With South Africa leapfrogging them to take over as the number one side in the Test world rankings, Cummins acknowledged that introspection was required as they prepare to host New Zealand next.

“We lost two games in a row. I think it's fair to be asking questions and we'll be asking them internally as well,” Cummins told reporters, adding that the team needs to improve to reclaim the top spot.

Reflecting on his surprise decision to bowl first after winning the toss on a wearing surface, Cummins explained that they anticipated a high-scoring game and hoped to claim 10 wickets on day one.

However, batting last proved treacherous as Simon Harmer dismantled the Australian lineup with career-best match figures of 10-120, exposing the wearing Newlands pitch.

Cummins also pointed out that poor decision-making cost his batters dearly, noting that their run chase effectively ended within the opening half-hour of the final day.

“There were a few really poor decisions. I know it's a day-five wicket but I don't think it was drastic. There were runs to be scored out there; there were lots of balls to face,” he concluded.