Perth: Emerging South African paceman Kagiso Rabada (3/49) claimed three crucial wickets as South Africa closed in on victory against Australia on the fourth day of the opening Test in Perth, Sunday.
Set an intimidating victory target of 539, the home side were wobbling on 169 for four at stumps and facing a potential record defeat against South Africa. Usman Khawaja (58 batting, 120b, 6×4, 2×6) and Mitchell Marsh (15 batting, 29b, 2×4) were at the crease with South Africa’s unbeaten record at the ground set to be extended.
An extraordinary piece of fielding by the diminutive Temba Bavuma removed the dangerous David Warner (35, 36b, 6×4) to end a 52-run opening stand. Four balls later fellow opener Shaun Marsh (15, 45b, 1×4) was dismissed off Rabada as Australia suddenly slumped to 52 for two.
Steven Smith (34, 91b, 5×4) and Khawaja set about rebuilding the Australian innings in search of a draw. But Rabada ended a 92-run third-wicket stand with an impressive spell.
Rabada was outstanding, with a couple of almost unplayable deliveries to Adam Voges (1) before he had the new batsman caught behind off a thin outside edge.
South Africa had declared their second innings on 540 for eight after lunch when Vernon Philander (73, 143b, 10×4, 2×6) was bowled by Smith (1/3). It ended a brisk 72-run stand with Keshav Maharaj (41 n o, 34b, 2×4, 3×6) as the visitors batted the home side out of the match after resuming on 390 for six. Earlier, Quinton de Kock (64, 100b, 5×4, 2×6) also added a crucial 116-run seventh wicket stand with Philander.
Brief scores
South Africa 242 and 540/8 decl (Vernon Philander 73); Australia 244 and 169/4 (Usman Khawaja 58 batting; Kagiso Rabada 3/49). Match to continue.
Agence France-Presse
