AUSTRALIA vs SOUTH AFRICA: DAY 4
Score: South Africa 242 and 8(dec)-540. Australia 244 and 4-169
Man of the moment: Kagiso Rabada. With Dale Steyn unable to bowl in the second innings, South Africa needed Vernon Philander and Rabada to carry the load. Philander did the damage in the first innings and Rabada followed suit in the second with three key wickets - Shaun Marsh, Steve Smith and Adam Voges.
Key moment: Run-out magic from Temba Bavuma. Australia were in desperate need of a David Warner century. But the opener's innings was brought to an end on 35 by a brilliant piece of fielding from Bavuma. The pint-sized South African was horizontal and a few inches off the ground when he picked up the ball and threw down the wickets from close range. It was a defining moment that has all but assured South Africa will win.
Stat of the day: 539 - Australia's victory target. If they get there, it will be the highest successful run chase in Test history.
Summary: Barring an absolute miracle, South Africa will win. Australian need a further 370 runs but have just six wickets in hand. Their best batsmen are already back in the pavilion and it feels like just a matter of time before South Africa clean up those remaining. If Australian can bat all day on Monday for a draw, it would be a Herculean effort.
Quote of the day: "I'm a bit stiff and sore." An understatement from Australian paceman Peter Siddle after being forced to bowl for four straight days, including Saturday's 37-degree scorcher.
Share
