SA gain upper hand Down Under
The world’s number one team amassed an intimidating 450 in their first-innings and then had Michael Clarke’s Australians under pressure at 111 for three at stumps.
Clarke was at the crease on 34 with opener Ed Cowan not out 49 in an unbroken 71-run stand.
Jacques Kallis had a memorable day, making his 44th Test century and his fifth against Australia.
His 147 was the highest score by a South African in a Brisbane Test since Eddie Barlow’s 114 in 1963.
The star all-rounder also chipped in with two catches at second slip to help put the skids under the Australians.
“I think this morning is a key part of the game for us,” said Kallis. “If we can nip out a couple and put some real pressure on Australia, who knows?”
“I think we’ve just got to give ourselves the opportunity. I think the game’s far from dead.
“There’s enough in the wicket as well. As long as we keep applying the pressure, that’s all that we can do. If Australia play well, then fair enough.”
Australia bowlers, who took just two wickets on Friday’s opening day, had their best spell with four wickets in the middle session.
Kallis was removed shortly after lunch by James Pattinson to end the allrounder’s 349-minute stint at the crease.
Kallis shared a 165-run partnership for the third wicket with Amla, who reached his third century in four innings against Australia and his 17th overall before he given out lbw to Peter Siddle for 104.
Ben Hilfenhaus wrapped up the Proteas’ innings with the wickets of Dale Steyn (15) and Morne Morkel (0) after tea.
Pattinson was Australia’s best bowler with three for 93.
“The partnership we have at the moment is a crucial one for us,” said Hilfenhaus. “Hopefully, they can continue that tomorrow and make our way closer to their total.”
Published in The Express Tribune, November 12th, 2012.
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