Cricket: Australia prevail in thrilling finale

Haddin, Johnson defy South Africa as series ends 1-1.

JOHANNESBURG: Teenage fast-bowler Pat Cummins sealed a dream Test debut when he hit the  winning runs to take Australia to a two-wicket win in the second and final Test against South Africa.

Australia chased down 310 to level the series 1-1. Cummins, who took six for 79 in South Africa’s second-innings, was named man of the match. Wicket-keeper Brad Haddin (55) and fast-bowler Mitchell Johnson (40 not out) were mainly responsible for their team reaching the target, putting on 72 for the seventh wicket after Australia’s specialist batsmen had been dismissed with 95 still needed.

South Africa fast-bowler Vernon Philander claimed his second five-wicket haul in his second Test to keep the hosts in with a chance. Philander bowled Australia captain Michael Clarke in the fourth over of the day and 20 runs later Ricky Ponting was dismissed by Morne Morkel for 62.

But Mike Hussey and Haddin put together a sixth-wicket partnership of 50 to bring Australia back in the match. However, there was yet another twist when Philander dismissed Hussey for 39.

It left Haddin and the hard-hitting Johnson to revive Australia’s hopes. Haddin grew in confidence after tea as he and Johnson attacked the bowling. However, his dismissal and that of Peter Siddle again changed the match’s complexion as Cummins walked out with 18 still needed, but the teenager batted positively to seal the win.

Clarke elated with win

Australia captain Michael Clarke was delighted at the result.“We’re working our backsides off, and what a performance today,” he said. “I’m proud of the boys. Ponting showed tremendous courage, he’s great to have around.”

Cummins felt that the senior bowlers in the team helped him bowl well. “It was great to bowl them out yesterday,” he said. “I was looking up to Siddle and Johnson for support and they bowled beautifully.”

South Africa captain Graeme Smith felt that the series had been a good advertisement for Test cricket. “The last few series we’ve played with Australia have been good adverts for Test cricket, and it was no different this time,” said Smith.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 22^nd, 2011.